Delaware Construction Compliance Made Simple

We help contractors, workers, and project owners follow Delaware’s construction laws. Get step-by-step help with contractor registration, certified payroll, worker classification, and prevailing wage for public projects.

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About US

Simplified Construction Compliance for Contractors

The Office of Construction Enforcement is part of the Delaware Department of Labor’s Division of Industrial Affairs. We educate, support, and enforce the laws that keep public construction fair and legal. Our team provides clear guidance, forms, and training so you can register, classify workers correctly, submit certified payroll, and pay the right wage.

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Key Benefits

  • Public portal to find registered, compliant contractors.

  • Protect workers by meeting required wages and benefits under the law.

  • Fair bidding and a level playing field for all contractors.

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Step by Step Guide to Contractor Registration

1

Sign in to your OneStop account.

2

For Laptops or Computers:

At the top of the page, select the Operate tab.

3

For Mobile Devices:

Tap the three dashes in the top left corner of the screen. Select the Operate tab.

4

Select 'Apply for Contractor Registry Certificate'

5

Click Start.

6

Choose 'My business is a construction business operating and registered in Delaware' (specific wording may vary)

7

Click Start Again.

8

Scroll down and click Start one more time to begin your application.

Pay the Correct Wage on Public Projects

Prevailing Wage Law

Delaware’s Prevailing Wage Law ensures that workers on public construction projects are paid fairly for their trade. Learn what the law covers and how it applies to your business.

Prevailing Wage Regulations

Review the official regulations that outline wage determination, reporting requirements, and compliance enforcement for Delaware’s public projects.

Classification of Workers Under the Law

Understand how workers should be classified by trade to ensure they receive the correct prevailing wage rate.

Certified Payroll Report Form

Use this form to submit your certified payroll for public works projects and maintain compliance with Delaware’s Prevailing Wage Law.

Certified Prevailing Wage Rates Request Form

Need to confirm current wage rates for your project type? Submit a request to receive the certified prevailing wage rates.

Prevailing Wage Debarment List

Check the list of contractors prohibited from bidding or working on Delaware public projects due to non-compliance with prevailing wage laws.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failing to comply with Delaware’s construction laws can result in serious penalties, including fines, loss of registration, and disqualification from bidding on future public projects.Stay informed and take action early to avoid costly mistakes.

Wage Payment & Minimum Wage Compliance

View the current prevailing wage rates by project type to ensure you’re paying workers correctly before bidding or starting work.

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Simplify Certified Payroll for Public Works Projects

Managing payroll for public works projects has never been easier. With our streamlined fillable pdf, you can ensure your weekly payroll submissions align with Delaware's prevailing wage standards. Avoid common compliance mistakes, reduce delays, and keep your projects running smoothly.

Understanding Worker Classification

Workplace Fraud Act

Learn the laws that prevent misclassifying workers in Delaware.

Workplace Fraud Regulations

Click this link to view official workplace fraud regulations.

Workplace Fraud Violators List

See contractors penalized for violating worker classification rules.

Notice of Independent Contractor or Exempt Status

Submit this form to confirm worker classification or exemption.

 

Additional resources for compliance

Start here to apply through Delaware’s OneStop portal. Registration is required before performing any construction or maintenance work in the state.


If you’re already registered, renew your certificate before it expires at 11 months — you don’t need to apply for a new one.

Read the full law outlining Delaware’s contractor registration requirements, including who must register and what documentation is needed.

Find answers to common questions about who needs to register, how to renew, and what to expect during the application process.

Review the checklist before applying to make sure you have all the required documents and details ready.

Already registered? Use this form to update your business information, add users, or make other account changes in OneStop.

  • Penalties: from $1,000 to $85,000 per violation
  • Loss of Registration: Revocation, suspension, or denial of contractor registration.
  • Project Delays: Ineligibility to work on construction and maintenance projects while under suspension.
  • Mandatory Bonds: Surety bonds are required for continued operations after violations.
  • Misclassification Risks: Avoid costly penalties from $5,000 to $ 20,000 by properly classifying workers as employees or independent contractors.

 

RESOURCES FOR EMPLOYERS & EMPLOYEES

How to Stay Compliant with Payroll & Worker Classification Laws

Misclassifying employees as independent contractors can lead to legal issues and fines. This video helps construction businesses navigate payroll laws, certified payroll reporting, and proper worker classification to stay compliant.

Contractor Registration & Compliance: What You Need to Know

Before starting any construction or maintenance work in Delaware, contractors must be registered. This video explains how to apply for a Contractor Registration Certificate, maintain compliance, and avoid costly penalties.

Get in Touch!

Do you have questions or need assistance? Fill out the form below, and we'll respond within 48 hours.

Get in Touch!

Do you have questions or need assistance? Fill out the form below, and we'll respond within 48 hours.

We’re here to help

contractor.registry@delaware.gov

302-761-8200 (Option #5)

Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Georgetown

23627 Williams Drive

Newark

252 Chapman Road, Suite 210

Dover

Blue Hen Corporate Center, Suite 2H

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