Does my contractor need a license?

Most of the time Yes!

In California contractors must be licensed to perform work on any project that exceeds a total of $500. In addition, any construction job that requires a specific trade expertise – such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC or roofing contractors – requires you to have a license. Also make sure the contractor carries general liability insurance as well as workman’s comp insurance.

A contractor just came to my door saying they saw work that needed to be done on my house. What should I do?

Beware!

This is most likely a scam to get you to have work done that you don’t want or need. If you see something about your home that concerns you, contact several licensed contractors for their opinions and pricing before making any decisions on agreeing on work.

A contractor just came to my door offering a special offer, should I take it?

Beware!

If you think you might want to make a home improvement take the contractors information and check them out with the CSLB and BBB. Best practices recommend you receive a minimum of three quotes for your project.

A contractor is pushing for me to sign a contract, what should I do?

Take your time, know your rights!

Always have a written contract that states all work to be done, a time table for completion and all costs associated with the job. Homeowners have a three-day (five-day if 65 or older) right to cancel for projects like remodels. The right to cancel is waived if the contract is for service and repair, like an emergency repair of a water heater. All change orders should be in writing and signed by both parties.

My contractor is asking for full payment before he begins work, what should I do?

Be careful with your money!

Contractors cannot ask for a deposit of more than 10% of the total job cost or $1000, whichever is less. Always follow your schedule of payments and never pay for work that hasn’t been completed. If possible avoid paying in cash, if you must use cash make sure you get a written receipt with the amount of payment, balance left, date, job (name/location of work) and contractors name and signature.

My contractor says my check was lost or destroyed, what should I do?

Notify your bank, then...

This could be a ploy to get you to write multiple checks for the same work. Make sure you stop payment on the “lost” check with your bank. Once the check has been cancelled then issue a new check.

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