CC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When estimating labor costs, which factor accounts for the fact that workers are not 100% productive every hour they are on site? → Labor efficiency or productivity factor
2. Who is responsible for issuing an electrical contractor certification? → State Licensing Board
3. What is 'accounts receivable' in a contracting business? → Money owed to the contractor for completed work that has not yet been paid
4. The 'unit price' method of bidding is most commonly used when: → The quantity of work is uncertain but the type of work is known
5. Which OSHA standard covers trenching and excavation safety for construction workers? → 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P
6. In construction estimating, 'labor burden' refers to: → Additional costs beyond base wages, such as taxes, insurance, and benefits
7. What does 'prompt payment' legislation require of general contractors regarding subcontractors? → Subcontractors must be paid within a set number of days after the GC receives payment
8. Which organization is commonly involved in issuing OSHA safety certifications for contractors? → Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
9. What does the term 'quantity takeoff' refer to in construction estimating? → Measuring and listing all materials needed for a project
10. What must a contractor typically submit along with the license application form? → Application fee, proof of experience, and passing exam score
11. Which clause in a contract states that a contractor cannot file a lien while awaiting dispute resolution? → No-lien agreement or lien waiver clause
12. Which code governs the design and installation of electrical systems in most US buildings? → National Electrical Code (NEC), published by NFPA 70
13. What might happen if a contractor fails to renew their certificate on time? → The contractor may lose their license and ability to operate
14. Under most US state laws, unlicensed contractors: → Cannot sue to collect payment for their work
15. Who is typically responsible for issuing contractor bonds? → Surety Bond Companies
16. What is the 'right to cure' provision in a construction dispute? → A contractual right allowing the contractor to fix defective work before termination
17. What should a contractor do if their certificate renewal application is delayed or rejected? → Contact the licensing authority to resolve the issue
18. Which entity in the US typically oversees contractor licensing at the state level? → State Contractors State License Board or similar agency
19. What happens to a contractor certificate if the qualifying individual leaves the company? → The license may be suspended until a new qualifier is approved
20. How long does a contractor's surety bond typically last? → One year, renewable annually
21. Which financial statement shows a contractor's revenue and expenses over a period of time? → Income statement (profit and loss statement)
22. Under OSHA regulations, who is responsible for ensuring a safe work environment on a construction site? → The employer (contractor) is primarily responsible for worker safety
23. What is the primary purpose of requiring a contractor to pass a licensing examination? → To verify competency and knowledge of trade and laws
24. What is a 'draw schedule' on a construction project? → A timeline specifying when and how much the contractor will be paid as work progresses
25. What is the purpose of a 'Schedule of Values' on a construction project? → To break down the contract price into line items for billing and payment tracking purposes
26. What type of bond is most commonly required for contractors to obtain a certificate or license? → Surety Bond
27. In construction estimating, what is a 'contingency allowance' used for? → Covering unforeseen costs or risks not identified in the estimate
28. A 'lien waiver' is signed by a contractor to: → Release their right to file a mechanics lien upon receipt of payment
29. What is a mechanics lien? → A legal claim against a property for unpaid construction work or materials
30. If a contractor's license application is denied, what is typically the next step? → File an appeal with the licensing board