SIC 1700 — CONSTRUCTION - SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS

Frequently asked questions

What is NAICS 1700?

NAICS 1700 is the North American Industry Classification System code for CONSTRUCTION - SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS. It classifies this business activity for statistical, regulatory, and government procurement purposes. Federal agencies use NAICS codes to collect and publish data about the US economy, determine SBA size standards, and set aside contracts for small businesses.

What licenses and permits does a CONSTRUCTION - SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS need?

A CONSTRUCTION - SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS typically needs a local business license, a federal EIN from the IRS, and industry-specific permits depending on the sector. Check with your city or county clerk for a general business license, your state's professional or industry licensing board for any required occupational licenses, and your state's tax authority for a sales tax permit if you sell taxable goods or services.

How do I register a CONSTRUCTION - SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS business in the United States?

To register a CONSTRUCTION - SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS business, first choose your legal structure: sole proprietorship (simplest, uses SSN), LLC (personal liability protection, files with your Secretary of State), or corporation (Form 1120 or 1120-S). Register your business name (DBA) with your county if operating under a trade name. Obtain an EIN from the IRS at irs.gov/ein. Register with your state revenue department for any applicable taxes.

What tax forms does a CONSTRUCTION - SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS file with the IRS?

Tax forms depend on your entity type. A sole proprietor files Schedule C with Form 1040 and Schedule SE for self-employment tax (15.3%). An LLC taxed as a partnership files Form 1065 with Schedule K-1s. A C-Corporation files Form 1120 (21% flat rate). An S-Corporation files Form 1120-S. All businesses paying employees file Form 940 (FUTA) annually and Form 941 quarterly. Estimated tax payments are made via Form 1040-ES four times per year.

Is CONSTRUCTION - SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS the right NAICS code for my business?

Your NAICS code should reflect your primary business activity — the one generating the most revenue or value. If CONSTRUCTION - SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS describes your main line of business, NAICS 1700 is likely correct. If you have multiple distinct activities, you may need separate codes for statistical reporting. For federal contracting, your SAM.gov registration should use the code that best matches the work you perform. Review the official NAICS 1700 description and exclusions to confirm it fits your operations.

What contractor license does a CONSTRUCTION - SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS need?

Most states require a general contractor license for projects above a dollar threshold (typically $500-$50,000 depending on the state). Requirements include passing a trade and business/law exam, documenting 2-5 years of experience, providing a surety bond ($5,000-$100,000+), and carrying general liability insurance. Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC require separate specialty licenses in virtually all states with additional trade-specific exams.

Does a CONSTRUCTION - SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS need workers' compensation insurance?

Workers' compensation is required in nearly every state for businesses with employees. Exceptions exist for sole proprietors and partners (who can opt-out in most states but should consider coverage) and very small employers in some states. Texas is the only state where workers' comp is entirely voluntary. Construction businesses often face higher rates due to risk classification. Failure to carry required coverage can result in fines, stop-work orders, and personal liability for workplace injuries.

What OSHA requirements apply to a CONSTRUCTION - SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS?

All employers must provide a workplace free from recognized hazards under the OSH Act. OSHA recordkeeping (Form 300/300A/301) is required for employers with more than 10 employees unless exempt as a low-hazard industry. OSHA 10-hour or 30-hour construction outreach training is highly recommended and may be required by state law or project specifications. Fall protection (29 CFR 1926.501) is required at 6 feet in construction. Failure to comply can result in citations up to $15,625 per violation.

Does a CONSTRUCTION - SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS need a contractor bond?

Most states require contractor license bonds (also called surety bonds) ranging from $5,000 to $100,000+ depending on license classification and project value. The bond protects consumers if the contractor fails to complete work per the contract or violates license law. Bond premiums typically cost 1-3% of the bond amount annually. Additional payment and performance bonds may be required on public works projects under the Miller Act (federal) or Little Miller Acts (state).