For Consumers
If your home has been damaged or destroyed by fire
The Contractors State License Board has a helpful Fact Sheet, “Rebuilding After a Natural Disaster”. Please read it; it gives you tons of valuable information you need to know as you move forward. Read the Fast Facts – Rebuilding After a Natural Disaster here
Find more helpful information at the CSLB website Disaster Help Center.
Working with a Contractor
The generic term “Contractor” actually refers to 43 unique skilled trades. That is, plumbers, roofers, electricians. Contractors will be licensed to perform one or more trade specialties.
General Building Contractors can contract to do a job that is just Framing or Carpentry. Or they can contract for a project with at least two unrelated specialties outside of Framing or Carpentry, such as Tile and Countertops. General Builders cannot contract for a single specialty trade other than Carpentry work.
Contractors juggle multiple priorities: performing contracted work, lining up new work, managing material supply orders, estimating and adhering to regulatory requirements. It’s important to interview prospective contractors to find out if there’s a good match between your needs and the contractor’s schedule. See below for some tips on making a good match.
Find a Contractor
First things first: Confirm the contractor is licensed and in good standing. Ask to see their pocket license, confirm the person on the pocket license is the contractor bidding the project and check on their standing at www.cslb.ca.gov. Verify the contractor has current workers compensation insurance, or has certified they are exempt.
Ask questions about a company’s business practices and experience in a similar type of project.
- How long have you been in business?
- Who will be assigned as project supervisor for the job?
- Who will be working on the project? Are they employees or subcontractors?
- What is your approach to a project such as this?
- May I have a list of reference from those projects?
- Are you a member of a construction trade association?
- Have you or your employees been trained or certified in energy efficiency, water conservation, remodeling or such?
You should get all agreements in writing. Many projects require a Home Improvement Contract and a 3-day right to cancel.
!! Never pay more than 10% down or $1,000, whichever is lower !!
Get more great information on working with a contractor at the Contractors State License Board, www.cslb.ca.gov
Find the right contractor using our VCE Member Directory. Or call us at 530-343-1981
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