There are a variety of documents that get filed with us on public works projects. These include:

1. The Intent. The “Statement of Intent to Pay Prevailing Wages” (Intent) documents basic information about the project – such as the “who, what, where, and when” related to the project.
2. The Affidavit. The “Affidavit of Wages Paid” (Affidavit) states the work done on a project, the total hours worked, and the wage rates paid.

The system allows you to find an approved Intent or Affidavit filed by a contractor or employer for work on a public works project. Search for Intents and Affidavits.  Here is how to search. 

Our “Verify” tool can be used to look up if a contractor is in good standing with L&I.

To find the correct wage rate for employees on a public works project, you will need to identify:

• The type of work being done;
• Where the work is taking place; and
• The effective date of your contract.

Wage rates can be affected by whether a person is a:

• Owner/Operator;
• Journey level worker or registered apprentice; or
• Supervisor and foreman.

Wage rates can also be affected by overtime and prevailing overtime provisions:

• Minimum prevailing wage – daily and weekly overtime requirements; and
• Special overtime - certain classifications, shifts, weekends, or holiday requirements.

Look up Wage Rates

If you are an “Interested Party” you have the right to request and receive certified payroll reports, which are a formal, weekly record of wages paid to workers. See the Interested Party Request for Certified Payroll and Instructions (F700-141-000).

As an “Interested Party,” you can file a wage complaint with us for violations on a public works project. You will be required to provide information that documents the reason for the complaint, including:

• Alleged violation(s);
• Classifications and prevailing wage rates involved;
• All pertinent project dates: Bid due, award, work start, completion, and acceptance dates; and
• Statement of actions you have taken and copies of all evidence;

You will find a complete list on the complaint form.

There are several factors that impact how long it will take L&I to decide if we will accept a complaint. Those factors include:

• Date received;
• Complaint validity;
• Completeness of complaint; and
• Alleged violation(s) are under L&I jurisdiction.

Prevailing wage investigations generally take 180 days to complete. Complex investigations may take longer. L&I will contact you when we complete the investigation and make a decision regarding your complaint.

To file a complaint:

1. Download and print out the complaint form Prevailing Wage Interested Party Complaint (F700-129-000)
2. Fill out and sign the form. One per public works project.