Who Is a Contractor in New Mexico? Contractors are individuals or businesses that provide services to interested parties per written or oral agreements in exchange for compensation. New Mexico contractors who offer building, construction, and home improvement or repair-related services are regulated by the state's Regulation and Licensing Department (NMRLD) through its Construction Industries and Manufactured Housing Divisions. While the NMRLD offers over 70 license classifications and scopes, including general building, plumbing, HVAC work, drywall installation, electrical work, and carpentry, these contractors are typically categorized into two main groups: General Contractors: general contractors typically coordinate and oversee building and home remodeling projects on behalf of the project owner; however, they may also perform actual construction, maintenance, or repair work within the scope of their respective licenses. In New Mexico, general contractors often specialize in one of the following areas: Residential Contracting: contractors with this specialization focus on residential construction and improvement projects. Commercial Contracting: commercial contractors specialize in constructing office buildings, hotels, shopping malls, and similar structures used primarily for commercial purposes. Industrial Contracting: contractors with this specialization focus on large-scale projects involving industrial facilities.