Using a Contractor  

Contractor's State Licensing Board: 

Contractors are licensed through the California Contractor's State License Board.  

Verify if a contractor is licensed and up-to-date on their Workman's Compensation Insurance and more by checking their license CLSB Check a License

General Advice About Using Contractors:

• Hire only state-licensed contractors.
• Check a contractor's license number online or by calling 1 800-321-2752.
• Get at least three bids. 
• Get three references from each bidder and review past work in person. 
• Make sure all project expectations are in writing and only sign the contract if you completely understand the terms. 
• Confirm that the contractor has workers' compensation insurance for employees or if exempt does not have employees that will be on your job site. 
• Never pay more than 10% down or $1,000, whichever is less. Don't pay in cash
• Don't let payments get ahead of the work.
• Keep a job file of all papers relating to your project, including all payments.
• Don't make the final payment until you're satisfied with the job and the permit is finaled.