Find a builder who won't leave you lost in translation.

It depends on the scope. Cosmetic work — painting, flooring, kitchen cabinets — does not require a permit. However, removing or adding walls, changing plumbing or electrical routing, or altering the facade generally requires at minimum a stavebné oznámenie (building notification) and sometimes a full stavebné povolenie. Zákon č. 201/2022 Z.z. (effective April 2025) tightened these rules. When in doubt, call your local ÚUPV building office.

Search their business name or IČO on the živnostenský register (zrsr.sk) and obchodný register (orsr.sk). Check that their trade type matches the work (bound trade for construction since April 2025). Also check that they have poistenie zodpovednosti (liability insurance). Ask for 2–3 references from recent Slovak projects.

A bound trade requires proof of professional qualification — not just anyone can register one. For construction, this means a relevant vocational certificate or university degree. Since the 2025 reform (zákon č. 201/2022 Z.z.), contractors without the correct bound trade licence are operating illegally. If an unlicensed contractor causes damage, your insurance claim could be void.

Under zákon č. 40/1964 Z.z. (Civil Code), you have a 3-year warranty on construction work and 2 years on materials. Any defect discovered within this period must be repaired at the contractor's expense. Document everything — take timestamped photos before, during and after work. If a contractor refuses warranty repairs, you can report them to the Slovak Trade Inspection (SOI).