Protect Yourself from Unscrupulous or Unlicensed Contractors.
General Advice
• Only hire state-licensed contractors. • Any contractor performing work of $500 or more (combined labor and material costs) must be licensed by CSLB to work in California.
• Avoid being caught up in high-pressure sales tactics.
• Avoid rushing into repairs. Take the time to get at least three identical bids and verify testimonials.
• Ask to see the contractor's "pocket license" or their representative's "Home Improvement Salesperson" registration. All contractors are issued pocket licenses that show the type of trade for which they are licensed, and the license expiration date. Ask to see a photo identification to confirm their identity.