Oregon Contractor Business Practices and Law
Licensing and scope
Oregon HVAC/R contracting is regulated by the Construction Contractors Board (CCB) under ORS 701. A business must hold a CCB contractor license with the proper endorsement before offering or performing work. The license requires a responsible managing individual (RMI) who meets exam and experience requirements. The CCB also requires a surety bond and liability insurance; keep them current because a lapsed bond can suspend the license.
Contract and lien rules
Residential work above the CCB threshold needs a written contract stating scope, price, payment schedule, and required notices. For residential improvements, deliver a Notice of Right to Lien within 8 days after first furnishing labor or materials. An unlicensed contractor generally cannot enforce a lien or sue for compensation. Keep change orders and warranty terms in writing.
Worked example
You start a heat-pump replacement on March 1 and first deliver equipment March 2. The Notice of Right to Lien must be delivered by March 10. Missing that deadline can weaken lien rights even if the installation is perfect. Include the CCB-required disclosure and signed contract before work begins.
Traps
Handshake deals, starting before permit issuance, borrowing another contractor's license, and omitting change orders in writing are common failures. A signed proposal is not automatically a substitute for the statutory contract content.