Don't Get Scammed
Make sure you have a licensed contractor for your home projects!
Finding the right contractor for the job isn’t just picking a name out of the phone book; home owners must now investigate to make sure they’re not going to get burned by their contractor.
The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) protects consumers by licensing and regulating California’s construction industry. There are more than 310,000 licensed contractors in the state, in 43 different licensing classifications. In addition to educating consumers about contractors and construction law, CSLB activities include administering examinations to test prospective licensees, issuing licenses, investigating complaints against licensed and unlicensed contractors, issuing citations, suspending or revoking licenses, and seeking administrative, criminal and civil sanctions against violators.
According to the CSLB Web site, www.cslb.ca.gov, the CSLB’s Statewide Investigative Fraud Team (SWIFT) works to eliminate unlicensed contractors working in California. Undercover sting and sweep operations are conducted weekly around the state.
The following are some of the tips offered on the site about hiring the right contractor for your home improvement projects.
1. Deal only with state-licensed contractors.
Ask to see the contractor’s CSLB-issued “pocket license” and a valid photo identification. If the person claims to represent a contractor, but can’t show you a “salesperson registration card,” call the contractor to find out if the person is authorized to act on their behalf.
2. Contractors working on a job—from debris removal to rebuilding—totaling $500 or more for labor and materials must be licensed by the CSLB.
To become licensed, a contractor must pass a licensing examination, verify at least four years of journey level experience and carry a surety bond.
3. Get the contractor’s license number and check its history.
Use the CSLB Web site or call the toll-free automated telephone number at (800) 321-CSLB (2752) to verify that the license is valid.
4. Don’t rush into repairs, no matter how badly they are needed.
Get at least three bids. Don’t hire the first contractor who comes along. Be cautious about door-to-door offers of repair services and flyers or business cards that are left on your doorstep. Ask friends, family and associates for recommendations about contractors they have hired.
5. Get a written contract that details every aspect of the work plan.
Don’t sign the contract until you fully understand the terms. Make sure everything you have asked for is in writing and clearly described. A verbal promise may not give you the desired results.
6. Never pay in cash.
Keep receipts and records of payments. By law, a down payment on a home improvement contract cannot exceed 10 percent of the contract price or $1,000, whichever is less.
7. Don’t let payments get ahead of the work.
Don’t make the final payment until you are satisfied with the job and the building department has signed off on the completed work.
8. Make sure you have the names of subcontractors, material suppliers and confirmation that they have been paid.
If you do have problems with a licensed or unlicensed contractor, there are places to turn:
- File complaints against contractors at: www.cslb.ca.gov or call 800.321.CSLB (2752)
- Small Claims Court—for disputes and losses under $7,500
- The Consumer Division of your local district attorney’s office
- Your local sheriff or police department if a crime is in progress.
With these steps, you should be able to hire a quality contractor that will offer you quality work and help you achieve your home improvement needs.
