If an owner improves a property, a licensed contractor is required to be used in all of these situations EXCEPT if the property:

The correct response indicates that if a property is owner-occupied for more than one year, there is no requirement to employ a licensed contractor for improvements made to it. This situation suggests that the owner has enjoyed the stability and satisfaction of living in the property long enough that any improvements they wish to undertake can be considered personal projects rather than investment ventures requiring professional oversight.

In contrast, the other scenarios mentioned involve potential commercial transactions or lease agreements within a relatively short timeframe. When a property is intended to be sold or leased in the near future (within one year or specifically within six months), it is typically subject to more stringent regulations, which often necessitate the employment of licensed contractors to ensure that all improvements meet applicable safety standards and legal requirements. This helps protect future buyers or tenants and ensures the property maintains its value and safety during a transition of ownership or use.