We are cuurently trying to specialize in building log homes.. what we have found is that there are many contractors doing this already, not licenced by the state.  A home we are currently building started out just this way. The owners moved from another state and didnt know the regulations in Va.. Well the upshot of this problem is that this fellow was charged and convicted of operating without a license, Fined 150$ and apparently sent on his way.The owner on the other hand is out about 15000$ because he left with a downpayment and has no money to his name. Although he is a resident of Va. many of these contractors doing work here are not.   We understand the importance of being licenced contractors and that we are helping to protect the public at large, but what of the uninformed ?  Furthermore we would like to know what part of this fee increase is going to protect us from these contractors that do not seem to have to conform?  150 $ fine does not seem to deter them from their endeavors.