Contractor Problems in California: Complaints and Your Options
Where to file a complaint
Homeowners can file a complaint with CSLB, which addresses violations for up to four years from the date of the act. CSLB can investigate and take disciplinary action, but it says the purpose of an investigation is not to obtain restitution. Source
Bond or insurance
To get a California license, contractors must post a $25,000 surety bond or cashier's check with CSLB. A homeowner files a bond claim with the surety company listed on the contractor's license record, not with CSLB. If you aren't satisfied with the surety's response, the guide says you may take the contractor to small claims court for amounts up to $10,000. Source
Contract and cancellation rules
Home improvement projects over $500, counting material and labor, must be in a contract with specific consumer rights information. A down payment cannot be more than $1,000 or 10 percent of the contract price, whichever is less, unless the contractor has a valid blanket performance and payment bond on file with CSLB. Buyers generally have three business days to cancel, or five business days if 65 or older. This does not apply to contracts negotiated at the contractor's place of business, and there is an exception for emergency service and repair contracts. Source
Liens on your home
Subcontractors and suppliers who may need to file a lien must send a Preliminary Notice, before work begins or up to 20 days afterward. A later notice is still valid but covers only work from 20 days before it was delivered. CSLB describes joint checks and signed lien releases as ways to protect yourself. Filing a Notice of Completion within 15 days of completion shortens the lien recording window from 90 days to 60 for contractors and to 30 for subcontractors and suppliers. Source
This is general information, not legal advice. A topic we don't list means we couldn't confirm it on an official page, not that the protection doesn't exist.
California licensing and costs · All states
General information, not professional advice. Conditions, codes and prices vary. Turn off power, gas or water before any work, and hire a licensed professional when in doubt. Cost figures are our estimates, not quotes.