How Much Deposit Can a Contractor Ask For in Oregon?
Oregon does not set a single percentage cap on a contractor deposit; its protections are specific statutory rules on licensing, registration, written contracts, cancellation, or a recovery fund, each verified against its primary source.
Oregon regulates home improvement and contractors through its statutes rather than a single deposit percentage. The rules below each bear on a homeowner's deposit, and every one is tied to its primary source and verified against it.
Rules that bear on your deposit
Oregon requires an applicant for issuance or renewal of a contractor license to file a surety bond with the Construction Contractors Board. 1
In Oregon, a complaint against a contractor must arise from the performance, or a contract for the performance, of work requiring a Construction Contractors Board license. 2
In Oregon, when the owner of an existing structure files a complaint, the Construction Contractors Board must receive it no later than one year after the work was substantially completed. 3
To resolve a residential construction dispute in Oregon, the complainant must file the complaint with the Construction Contractors Board on a form prescribed by the board. 4
Sources
Oregon requires an applicant for issuance or renewal of a contractor license to file a surety bond with the Construction Contractors Board.
In Oregon, a complaint against a contractor must arise from the performance, or a contract for the performance, of work requiring a Construction Contractors Board license.
In Oregon, when the owner of an existing structure files a complaint, the Construction Contractors Board must receive it no later than one year after the work was substantially completed.
To resolve a residential construction dispute in Oregon, the complainant must file the complaint with the Construction Contractors Board on a form prescribed by the board.
Frequently asked questions
- Does Oregon cap how much deposit a contractor can ask for?
- Oregon does not set a single percentage deposit cap in these provisions. Its protections are the specific statutory rules on this page, each tied to its primary source.
- What protects my deposit in Oregon?
- The rules cited on this page, drawn from Oregon law, are what stand behind a deposit; confirm the contractor is properly licensed or registered before you pay.
Last reviewed August 3, 2026
This page is general information about state law, not legal advice. Laws change, and how they apply depends on the facts of your situation.