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Contractors State License Board
Contractors State License Board
What it is: The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) regulates licensed contractors in California. Filing a complaint reports issues such as poor workmanship, unlicensed work, or failure to complete a project.
Why it’s important:
Stops unsafe or dishonest contractors from continuing to work.
Documents the problem officially, which can support other claims like small claims.
Helps protect other homeowners from the same issues.
What happens if you don’t:
The contractor may continue working without accountability.
You may lose the chance to resolve the issue formally.
Submit A Bond Claim
Submit A Bond Claim
What it is: General contractors in California are required to carry a $25,000 surety bond or file a $25,000 cashier's check/cash deposit with the CSLB. This bond exists to protect homeowners if the contractor fails to pay for labor, materials, or doesn’t complete the work.
Why it’s important:
You may recover money directly from the bond without going to court or dealing personally with the contractor.
Provides an official record of the contractor’s failure to meet obligations.
What happens if you don’t:
Money legitimately owed to you may be lost.
Bond claims can expire if not filed within a set time, so delays can cost you.
Go To Small Claims Court
Go To Small Claims Court
What it is: Small Claims Court allows homeowners to pursue monetary damages from a contractor without needing a lawyer. In California small claims cases can recover up to $12,500.
Why it’s important:
Gives you the chance to recover your losses in court.
Provides a legal record of the contractor’s actions.
Can sometimes encourage the contractor to settle before the hearing.
What happens if you don’t:
You forfeit the chance to recover money through the legal system.
The contractor may face no consequences, and future homeowners remain unprotected.
Optional: Hire An Attorney
Optional: Hire An Attorney
For larger claims or cases involving significant damages, a lawyer may be able to pursue recovery. In Southern California, most attorneys won’t take a contractor dispute on contingency unless the claim is likely to result in at least $50,000–$100,000 in potential recovery, unless there are unusual statutory damages or the contractor has insurance.
For most homeowners, the options above—CSLB complaints, bond claims, and small claims court—are faster, simpler, and more practical.
Next Steps...
Once you understand which action(s) pertains to your situation, you can start the process by reviewing our Client Service Agreement and submitting your documents.
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