Resources
Hiring a contractor in California.
The state publishes free, practical guides for homeowners. These are the ones we point clients to most often, whoever they hire.
Before you hire
- CSLB: Hire a ContractorTips for getting bids, checking licenses, and reviewing contracts before you sign.
- CSLB: Consumer resourcesPublications and guides for homeowners, including payment and lien protections.
- Check a licenseThe official lookups for contractors, architects, engineers, and attorneys.
- ROAM Rebuild Bill of RightsOur plain-language summary of the protections California law gives fire-rebuild homeowners.
After a disaster
- CSLB: Disaster Help CenterRules that apply when rebuilding after a declared disaster, and how to spot unlicensed activity.
- CSLB: After a Disaster guide (PDF)A printable guide to hiring a contractor after a disaster.
- California Department of InsuranceHelp with homeowners insurance claims and disaster insurance questions.
If something goes wrong
- CSLB: File a complaintHow to file a complaint against a licensed or unlicensed contractor.
- Department of Consumer AffairsThe state department that oversees CSLB and other licensing boards.
- California Courts: Small claimsThe courts' self-help guide to small claims cases.
- State Bar of California: Certified lawyer referral servicesFind a certified referral service to connect with a California attorney. (Content copyright © The State Bar of California.)