Utah officials announced Tuesday that the state is making progress in combatting construction fraud one year after the implementation of specialized oversight measures. This development comes as the state continues to manage licensing and consumer protection through the Division of Professional Licensing, following the establishment of various regulatory frameworks dating back to 2022.
Foundational Regulatory Frameworks
The efforts to regulate the industry and protect consumers follow years of administrative groundwork. As early as September 2022, the Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) was managing various contractor requirements, including licensing and criminal history reviews. The state has since implemented new requirements for new building code analysts and updated various licensing and fee structures to adapt to changing industry needs.
Preventing Contract Disputes
A key component in the state's strategy to prevent disputes involves the use of standardized documentation. The Utah Division of Professional Licensing and the Utah Division of Consumer Protection have noted that they frequently receive complaints regarding violations of construction work. These complaints often arise when no formal agreement exists or when a contract lacks the specificity required to define clear expectations between parties.
The Residential Construction Agreement
To address these issues, the state provides an optional Residential Construction Agreement designed for use in Utah home construction projects. While the agreement is not mandatory, officials recommend that both parties read, understand, complete, and sign every page to ensure protection. The agreement is intended to serve as a customizable tool that empowers homeowners and contractors by providing clarity regarding roles and responsibilities.
Fostering Commercial Trust
John Simonson, Chairman of the Utah Construction Services Commission, described the agreement as a cornerstone for fostering stronger trust in Utah's commercial activities. He noted that the tool is particularly invaluable for those unfamiliar with contract details, helping consumers navigate construction journeys with confidence. The agreement includes specific sections for project plans, change orders, and proof of licensure and insurance.
License Verification Systems
The Division of Professional Licensing maintains a comprehensive system for license verification. As of August 4, 2026, the state provides a Licensee Lookup & Verification System that allows the public to search for professionals by name, profession, or license number. This system covers a wide range of industries, including accountancy, architects, building inspectors, and various specialized contractors.
Regulatory Board Oversight
The oversight of these professionals is managed by various boards. The Utah Construction Services Commission includes several members tasked with regulating the industry. As of late 2022, the board included members such as Andrei Tarassov, who serves as Chairperson, and John Patrick Simonson. Other members include Justin G. May, Jason Peterson, K. Adam Christian, Jr., Terry McBride, Timothy Savage, J. Daniel Shoenfeld, and Rich Lewis.
Industry Resources and Safety
Beyond contract enforcement, the state provides various resources to assist the public and industry professionals. These resources include a Home Improvement Success Guide and information regarding the State Construction Registry. The state also provides guidance on preventing suicides in the construction industry and maintains records of legislative acts such as HB 136 from 2004 and HB 105 from 2005 that impact the industry.
