California State License Board Takes 73 Enforcement Actions

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) recently completed a combined 39 separate stings and sweeps resulting in 73 enforcement actions across the state, part of a coordinated, multi-state initiative organized by the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA). California was one of 15 states that participated in the effort to crack down on unlicensed activity and protect consumers.

CSLB partnered with local law enforcement to conduct enforcement operations, known as stings and sweeps, to combat unlicensed activity and address compliance. Unlicensed individuals often seek to take advantage of consumers by offering services without the legally required licenses or workers’ compensation insurance, leaving homeowners responsible for any accidents or damages that occur.

“Unlicensed activity often crosses state lines and NASCLA’s coordinated effort sends a unified message about the consequences and risks of unlicensed activity,” said CSLB Registrar David Fogt. “CSLB will continue to advance consumer protection and we are grateful for our partners who share in our mission to protect consumers.”

CSLB conducted stings, which are undercover operations, in three counties. During the three undercover stings, investigators contacted suspected unlicensed individuals through advertisements. The individuals arrived at designated locations to bid on various projects ranging from $1,100 to $35,000 for various construction projects. As a result, 25 misdemeanor Notices to Appear in criminal court citations for unlicensed contracting and illegal advertising were issued, 10 administrative citations were filed, and six individuals will be referred to district attorney’s offices for review and possible prosecution for contracting without a license.

California laws prohibit unlicensed contractors from bidding and/or contracting on any project that requires a building permit or where employee labor is used, or when the project is valued at $1,000 or more in combined labor and material costs.

CSLB conducted sweep operations in 18 counties. These operations included 182 site visits, 11 cases referred to local district attorneys, 13 licensee citations, six non-licensee citations, and two Letters of Admonishment. Separately, CSLB also issued 11 stop work orders and 20 advisory notices.

Individuals that received citations were provided with information to encourage licensure and compliance.

For more information about CSLB or to report suspected unlicensed activity, visit www.cslb.ca.gov or call 1-800-321-CSLB (2752).

About CSLB

The Contractors State License Board protects consumers by regulating the construction industry through policies that promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the public in matters relating to construction, including home improvement.