RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) recently partnered with the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office to conduct a highly successful undercover operation aimed at targeting unlicensed contractors. This operation took place in Rancho Cordova on June 7 and 8, 2023, and resulted in the identification of multiple individuals engaged in illegal contracting practices.

During the operation, CSLB cited 10 individuals for allegedly conducting contracting activities without the required license. These offenders have been issued Notices to Appear in criminal court, where they could face legal consequences, including fines up to $15,000 and/or jail time. Engaging in contracting work without a contractor’s license is a misdemeanor offense in California.

The individuals targeted during this operation submitted bids ranging from $1,500 for bathroom improvements to more than $10,000 for concrete work. A California contractor’s license is required to bid or contract for construction work exceeding $500 in value, including materials and labor. CSLB remains steadfast in its mission to enforce contracting laws and protect consumers from unscrupulous individuals involved in unlicensed contracting activities.

Unlicensed contractors apprehended in this operation may also face additional charges for advertising their construction services without the necessary license. It is illegal under California law for anyone to advertise construction or home improvement work without a valid license in the advertised classification. If unlicensed individuals advertise contracting services, they must explicitly disclose their lack of licensure and cannot bid or contract for work valued at more than $500.

“CSLB is unwavering in our dedication to protect homeowners from the risks posed by unlicensed contractors,” emphasized CSLB Registrar David Fogt. “Our commitment includes providing continuous consumer education on the critical significance of hiring licensed contractors. We urge homeowners to verify a contractor's license before embarking on any construction project in California.”

During the operation, it was discovered that some individuals demanded excessive down payments before commencing work. California law strictly limits contractors to requesting no more than 10% of the project cost or $1,000, whichever is less. Violating this provision constitutes a misdemeanor offense, punishable by substantial fines of up to $5,000 or a potential one-year county jail sentence, or both.

CSLB, in collaboration with the Sacramento County District Attorney's Office and other agencies across the state, will continue to work to combat unlicensed contracting activities. Together, they will enforce the law, promote consumer protection, and uphold the integrity of the construction industry.

For further information or to report suspected unlicensed contractor activities, please visit the CSLB website at www.cslb.ca.gov or contact CSLB toll-free at 1-800-321-CSLB (2752). For ongoing information and updates from CSLB, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

CSLB operates under the umbrella of the Department of Consumer Affairs and licenses and regulates nearly 285,000 contractors in California.