Hiring & process
How do I hire a contractor in California?
Verify the contractor's CSLB license at cslb.ca.gov, confirm general liability and workers' comp insurance, check that they're bonded, get three references on similar work in your city, and demand a written fixed-price contract before paying any deposit (California caps deposits at $1,000 or 10%, whichever is less).
California requires every contractor over $500 to hold a CSLB license. License classifications matter — B (general building) covers most remodels and ADUs; specialty classes (C-10 electrical, C-36 plumbing) appear on sub-trades.
Avoid red flags: cash-only deals, no written contract, pressure to start immediately, deposits over the legal cap, and bids that don't itemize allowances.
Keep reading
Related questions
- • What questions should I ask a contractor?
- • How do I check a contractor's CSLB license?
- • What's a fair contractor deposit?
Source: California Contractors State License Board — State of California
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