Do stucco contractors need to be licensed?

Licensing requirements vary by state. In most states, stucco contractors must hold a state license. Always verify the license number with your state's licensing board before work begins.

How many estimates should I get?

Get at least three written estimates for any project over $1,000. Compare line by line — not just the bottom line — to ensure you're comparing equivalent scopes of work.

What should be in the contract?

A written contract should include: full scope of work, materials specified by brand and grade, timeline with start and completion dates, payment schedule tied to milestones, workmanship warranty terms, and a change order process.

How to Hire a Stucco Contractor

Updated March 2026

Stucco is a durable, fire-resistant exterior finish popular in the Southwest, Southeast, and increasingly across the country. Traditional three-coat stucco over metal lath provides excellent longevity when properly installed with adequate drainage planes and flashing. Synthetic stucco (EIFS — Exterior Insulation and Finish System) offers better insulation values but requires meticulous moisture management. Stucco cracking, staining, or bulging often indicates trapped moisture that can cause serious structural damage if not remediated promptly — stucco remediation involves removing the cladding, repairing substrate damage, and reinstalling with improved drainage.

Typical cost

$6,000 – $20,000per project

New stucco application: $6–$9/sq ft. Stucco repair: $500–$3,000. Full remediation: $15,000–$40,000+. Prices depend heavily on scope and substrate condition.

Hiring checklist

1Ask whether they specialize in traditional stucco, EIFS, or both.
2Confirm the bid specifies the number of coats and the drainage system behind the stucco.
3Request references specifically for stucco remediation if moisture damage is suspected.
4Ask about the workmanship warranty and how they handle cracking within the warranty period.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a stucco contractor charge?
Typical stucco costs range from $6,000 to $20,000 per project. New stucco application: $6–$9/sq ft. Stucco repair: $500–$3,000. Full remediation: $15,000–$40,000+. Prices depend heavily on scope and substrate condition.
Do stucco contractors need to be licensed?
Licensing requirements vary by state. In most states, stucco contractors must hold a state license. Always verify the license number with your state's licensing board before work begins.
How many estimates should I get?
Get at least three written estimates for any project over $1,000. Compare line by line — not just the bottom line — to ensure you're comparing equivalent scopes of work.
What should be in the contract?
A written contract should include: full scope of work, materials specified by brand and grade, timeline with start and completion dates, payment schedule tied to milestones, workmanship warranty terms, and a change order process.

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