How do I verify a Long Island pool contractor's license?

For Nassau County: visit the Nassau County Office of Consumer Affairs website and use their public HIC license search. Enter the company name or license number and confirm the license is active and in good standing.

For Suffolk County: visit the Suffolk County Department of Labor, Licensing and Consumer Affairs online license lookup. Same process — company name or number.

Before hiring, also verify: (1) a Certificate of Insurance showing general liability ($1M+ is standard) and workers' comp; (2) no open Better Business Bureau complaints; (3) references from recent local jobs; (4) for liner or construction work, a written contract including start date, scope, total price, and payment schedule (never pay more than 1/3 up front).

Red flags: license that expired or isn't listed at all, no insurance documentation, cash-only, refusal to provide a written contract.