🛠️ Hiring a Licensed Contractor in California: What Homeowners Need to Know

🛠️ Hiring a Licensed Contractor in California: What Homeowners Need to Know

Thinking about updating your driveway or creating a backyard oasis? 🏡 In California, hiring the right contractor can make all the difference—not just for quality work, but also for your legal protection.

Here’s what every homeowner should know before signing a contract.

✅ Why You Should Hire a Licensed Contractor

In California, any job over $500 in labor and materials requires a licensed contractor, according to the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).

Key Benefits:

  • Legal protection: Licensed contractors are held to strict legal and professional standards.

  • Insurance coverage: Licensed contractors must carry workers’ compensation (if they have employees) and often general liability insurance.

  • Permits & inspections: They’re familiar with local building codes and can pull the right permits for your project.

Stay Informed - Be sure to hire a licensed contractor for any jobs over $500

🛠️ Hiring a Licensed Contractor in California: What Homeowners Need to Know

Thinking about upgrading your driveway or creating a backyard oasis? 🏡 In California, hiring the right contractor can make all the difference—not just for quality work, but also for your legal protection.

Here’s what every homeowner should know before signing a contract.

✅ Why You Should Hire a Licensed Contractor

In California, any job over $500 in labor and materials requires a licensed contractor, according to the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).

Key Benefits:

  • Legal protection: Licensed contractors are held to strict legal and professional standards.

  • Insurance coverage: Licensed contractors must carry workers’ compensation (if they have employees) and often general liability insurance.

  • Permits & inspections: They’re familiar with local building codes and can pull the right permits for your project.

🕵️ How to Verify a Contractor's License

Always check before you hire.

  1. Visit the CSLB: CSLB License Check Tool

  2. Enter the contractor’s license number, name, or business name

  3. Review their:

    • License status (active, expired, suspended)

    • Classification (e.g. B – General Building Contractor)

    • Bond and insurance info

    • Complaint history (if any)

⚠️ Red Flags to Watch Out For

Avoid unlicensed contractors or deals that sound too good to be true. Common red flags include:

  • No written contract

  • Asking for large cash payments upfront

  • Refusal to provide a license number

  • Pushing you to skip permits

👉 In California, it’s illegal for a contractor to ask for more than 10% down or $1,000, whichever is less.

📄 What Should Be in the Contract?

A clear, written contract protects both parties. It should include:

  • Contractor’s license number

  • Scope of work

  • Payment schedule

  • Timeline & deadlines

  • Materials to be used

  • Change order process

  • Warranty info

🏡 Final Thoughts

Hiring a licensed contractor in California isn’t just about following the law—it’s about protecting your home, your money, and your peace of mind. Take the time to research, verify, and sign a solid contract before any work begins.

Contact IGL Pavers - a licensed Class A and C27 Contractor in SLO County.

📞(805) 225-5111
🌐 www.IGLPavers.com

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✨ Before & After: Driveway Glow-Up!

Before & After: Driveway Glow-Up!

From sand and rock to curb appeal goals

Watch  to see how IGL transformed this driveway into a stunning permeable paver masterpiece. With durable materials, clean lines, and a custom pattern, this upgrade adds serious charm, functionality and value to the home.

Low-maintenance
Long-lasting
Instant wow-factor

Thinking about upgrading your driveway? This is your sign!
San Luis Obipso County
#DrivewayGoals #PaverDriveway #BeforeAndAfter #HardscapeDesign #CurbAppeal #OutdoorUpgrade #PaverTransformation #PermeablePavers #IGLPavers #HardscapeInstall #HardscapeExpert

Permeable Paver Driveway - Downtown SLO

Before & After: Driveway Glow-Up!
From sand and rock to curb appeal goals 🚗✨

Watch  to see how IGL transformed this driveway into a stunning permeable paver masterpiece. With durable materials, clean lines, and a custom pattern, this upgrade adds serious charm, functionality and value to the home.

✅ Low-maintenance
✅ Long-lasting
✅ Instant wow-factor

Thinking about upgrading your driveway? This is your sign! Contact IGL today!
San Luis Obipso County
#DrivewayGoals #PaverDriveway #BeforeAndAfter #HardscapeDesign #CurbAppeal #OutdoorUpgrade #PaverTransformation #PermeablePavers #IGLPavers #HardscapeInstall #HardscapeExpert

📞(805) 225-5111
🌐 www.IGLPavers.com

Read More