Editor’s note: this consumer alert was provided by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Visit the CSLB website at https://www.cslb.ca.gov to sign up to receive additional consumer alerts.
As wildfires are impacting communities in Southern California, the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) is urging homeowners to hire licensed contractors for any repair or construction projects costing $1,000 or more, including labor and materials.
CSLB’s priority after disasters is to safeguard consumers from unlicensed or unscrupulous contractors who may seek to take advantage of people who need urgent repairs or cleanup.
“After a disaster, homeowners are vulnerable to scams and poor workmanship,” said CSLB Registrar David Fogt. “Licensed contractors have proven qualifications that help ensure they can perform safe and reliable work.”
Protect Yourself – Hire Licensed Contractors
Homeowners can use CSLB’s Find My Licensed Contractor tool to find licensed contractors in their area. Before hiring anyone, confirm the contractor’s license number on the CSLB website and check their pocket license to verify that the contractor representing the business is listed as personnel on the license.
Hiring unlicensed contractors puts homeowners at significant risk, as they usually don’t carry workers’ compensation insurance or have the skills necessary to perform the work.
Resources for Homeowners
CSLB offers a dedicated Disaster Help Center section on its website with free publications, such as:
• “Debris Removal and Construction Scams”
• “Rebuilding After a Disaster”
• “What You Should Know Before Hiring a Contractor”
These materials can help homeowners make informed decisions about hiring contractors and avoiding scams. For additional assistance, CSLB’s Disaster Hotline is available at 800-962-1125 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or homeowners can call the main line at 800-321-CSLB (2752).
For more information about the state’s wildfire recovery efforts, visit the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) website.
Tips for Hiring a Contractor
Don’t rush into repairs or cleanup, no matter how badly they’re needed. Don’t sign over any payment checks from your insurance company.
Work with your local building department to make sure you understand the rebuilding process and take advantage of all services they can provide.
Hire only California-licensed contractors. Ask to see the license. The license number must be on all ads, contracts, and business cards.
Get three bids, check references, and get a written contract. Don’t necessarily take the lowest bid, especially if it’s much less than other bids.
Don’t rush into decisions and don’t hire the first contractor who comes along.
Don’t pay more than 10 percent down or $1,000 — whichever is less.
Don’t pay cash, and don’t let the payments get ahead of the work. Only pay for work as it is completed to your satisfaction.
Keep a job file of all project papers, including correspondence and copies of all payments.
Avoid making the final payment until you’re satisfied with the job.
For more information, visit CSLB’s website, or connect with us on Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
