---
title: "Hire Licensed Escalation Card"
---

# Hire Licensed Escalation Card

Use with [When DIY AI Is Not Enough: Hire Licensed Professionals](/articles/when-diy-ai-is-not-enough-hire-licensed).

## What this is not

- Not DIY instructions for electrical, gas, structural, roof-load, or asbestos
- Not a permit determination
- Not a contractor recommendation or price opinion
- Not emergency-response advice (call emergency services when needed)

## Escalate when

| Trigger | Route |
| --- | --- |
| Electrical / gas / structural / roof-load / asbestos | Licensed trade (+ engineer if required) |
| Permit / inspection uncertainty | Building department (AHJ) + qualified pro |
| FTC home-improvement red flags | Stop; verify; report if needed |
| Scope crossed must-not-touch | Re-brief; hire; do not DIY-prompt |
| Insurance / lease requires licensed work | Hire; keep documents |

## Handoff packet checklist

- [ ] Brief + must-not-touch
- [ ] Privacy-safe photos only
- [ ] Symptom / timeline notes
- [ ] Questions for the licensed pro
- [ ] License / insurance / written scope requested
- [ ] Quote grid if multiple bids (no AI winner)

## Banned prompts after escalation

- [ ] DIY life-safety step-by-step
- [ ] AI permit yes/no
- [ ] AI market bid invention

## Contacts

- Licensed trade:
- Building department:
- Backup bidder: