It is unlawful for an individual to supply products or services related to certain home furnishings without first obtaining the proper Home Furnishings License from the Bureau of Electronic and Appliance Repair, Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation. The Bureau, under the umbrella of the Department of Consumer Affairs, regulates licensing of individuals who engage in the home furnishings trade, specifically those that handle upholstery, bedding and filling material that will ultimately purchased by consumers. Candidates for a Home Furnishings License must file an application with proper fees, which vary depending on the specifics of the business. As of January 1, 2015, new standards on furniture flammability went into effect that impact those who hold Home Furnishings Licenses.

Obtaining a license

Before a person or entity can engage in a business regulated by the Bureau, including home furnishings, they must first obtain a valid license to do so. “Home furnishings” refers to furniture, bedding and filling material offered for sale in the state regardless of origin. Each term is more specifically described in the Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation Act.

Section 1 of Application

In order to acquire the Home Furnishings License, an applicant must submit an application that includes the following information:

• Name of the applicant;
• Identification and organization of business if applicant is a corporation;
• Mailing and location address;
• Social Security or Federal Employee Identification Number;
• Information on convictions of felonies or misdemeanors; and,
• Other details regarding the applicant.

Section 2 of Application

The Application also requires identification of all types of home furnishings the applicant intends to deal in, falling into five categories:

• Manufacture
• Wholesale
• Supply Dealer
• Retail
• Sanitize

A processing fee must be included when submitted the Application for Home Furnishings License and the amount depends upon the specific category the applicant identifies as business type. The cost ranges from $120 - $650.

License type

Depending on the information submitted in the Application for Home Furnishings credentials, approved licenses will fall into one of the following categories:

• Furniture & Bedding Manufacturer
• Furniture & Bedding Wholesaler
• Furniture & Bedding Retailer
• Furniture Retailer
• Bedding Retailer
• Sanitizer
• Supply Dealer
• Custom Upholsterer

License applicability and renewal

Once obtained, the Home Furnishings License applies only to the location identified in the Application and Certificate. However, companies operating seven or more locations may opt to obtain a chain license. A Home Furnishings License expires two years after the date of issuance.

New flammability standards

Recognizing that previous standards were over 40 years old and in need of updating, the Bureau established new regulations governing the flammability of certain furniture materials. While the standards specifically apply to furniture manufacturers, the Bureau made clear that all wholesalers, distributors, retailers or other businesses who possess furniture with the intent to sell are responsible. The specific standards deal with the manufacture of flame retardant materials, as well as the processes used in testing them.