HI HB1927

Creates new section 444-A establishing an owner-builder exemption from contractor licensing requirements for owners building structures for personal use or family members' use, with mandatory registration required.

Allows owner-builders to sell or lease property within one year of completion if facing an "eligible unforeseen hardship" as determined by the contracting board, rather than the absolute one-year prohibition.

Exempts construction work under $10,000 in estimated valuation from the one-year sale/lease restriction, and exempts residential properties sold to employees of the owner-builder.

Prohibits owner-builders found in violation from engaging in exempt activities or registering for three years, and establishes a rebuttable presumption of violation if exemption is obtained more than once in two years.

Establishes penalties of $5,000 or 40% of appraised building value for first offense, and $10,000 or 50% of appraised value for subsequent offenses, for violations or failure to comply with disclosure statement requirements. Effective July 1, 2010.