Introduction

If the work you are considering is valued at $300 or more, a valid California Contractor's License is required for the license category in which the contractor is going to be working. There are approximately 43 different types of contracting, each requiring a separate specialty contractor's license. If your project requires three or more types of work, then the work should be done by a licensed general building contractor. It is important for you to know that the California Contractors License Board may not be able to help you in regards to a contractor complaint if the contractor is not licensed.

• Check with the California Contractors Licensing Board for valid licensing & whether or not there have been complaints filed against the licensee.
• Ask the contractor for at least three local references. Be sure to follow through by contacting the references.
• Require the contractor to provide you with proof of workers compensation insurance, if he or she has employees.
• Require the contractor to provide you with proof of liability insurance coverage.
• Provide professionally prepared construction drawings so that all contractors bidding on your project will be basing their prices on the same work.
• Exercise caution when considering acting as an owner/builder (acting as your own general contractor). Besides having the overall responsibility of the project, you may be subject to state and federal taxes as well as workers compensation insurance.

State Contractors License Board (CSLB)

State Contractors License Board (CSLB) is located at 9835 Goethe Road, Sacramento, CA 95826

Mailing address: CSLB, P.O. Box 26000, Sacramento, CA 95826-0026

Complaint forms are available through the CSLB by mail, fax, the CSLB Web site listed above, or from the City of Rohnert Park Building Department, 120 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park, CA 94928, (707) 588-2239.