How to Choose a Coastal NC Dock Builder

QUICK ANSWER

A reputable coastal NC dock builder will be NC GC-licensed, fully insured, provide an itemized estimate, drive pilings to refusal, use 316 stainless hardware, carry written warranties, supply local references, and handle CAMA permits in-house.

The 8 questions

Are you licensed? Ask for the NC General Contractor license number. Verify it at nclbgc.org.
What is your insurance coverage? Liability minimum $1M, plus worker's comp.
How deep do you drive pilings? The right answer is "to refusal," not a number of feet.
What hardware do you use? 316 stainless on the saltwater side is the only correct answer.
Will you provide an itemized estimate? Every board, fastener, and piling listed.
Do you handle CAMA permits in-house? Yes, with permit fees billed at cost.
Can I see three references in my county? A builder with no local refs is a red flag.
What is your workmanship warranty? One year minimum, written.

Red flags

No NC GC license, or one in a different name than the company
"Lumber and hardware" lumped as a single line item
Reluctance to specify piling depth in writing
"Galvanized is fine" on saltwater-side hardware
Cash-only deposit requests above 25%
Refusal to provide local references
No written warranty

FAQ

Quick questions

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How do I verify a NC contractor license?

Search the contractor name or license number at nclbgc.org. The site shows license status, expiration date, classification (Building, Residential, Specialty), and any disciplinary history.

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What insurance should a dock builder carry?

A coastal NC marine contractor should carry minimum $1M general liability, worker's compensation, and ideally a separate marine operations policy that covers in-water work.

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How to Choose a Coastal NC Dock Builder — 8 Questions to Ask