Construction

Construction Law ## CSLB — Contractors State License Board The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) is the California agency that licenses and regulates all contractors. Any construction work valued at $500 or more in combined labor and materials requires the contractor to hold a valid CSLB license. This is not a gray area — the $500 threshold is a hard rule. ### License Classes: - Class A — General Engineering Contractor: Works primarily with infrastructure — roads, bridges, utilities, grading. Engineering knowledge required. - Class B — General Building Contractor: Oversees general building construction involving multiple trades. Can hire subcontractors for specialty work. - Class C — Specialty Contractor: Licensed in a specific trade. Examples: C-10 (Electrical), C-36 (Plumbing), C-20 (HVAC), C-33 (Painting), C-43 (Sheet Metal). Over 40 specialty classifications exist. ### Consequences of Using an Unlicensed Contractor: - Owner/property manager liability if worker is injured (workers' compensation issues) - Insurance may void claims related to unlicensed work - Work done without permits may require demolition and redo - CSLB citations against both the unlicensed contractor AND the person who hired them - The unlicensed contractor cannot enforce their contract or sue for payment in California --- ## Building Permits and Inspections Most construction work beyond minor repairs requires a building permit from the local building department: - When required: New construction, additions, significant remodels, structural work, electrical, plumbing, HVAC work - When NOT required: Cosmetic work — painting, flooring, cabinet replacement (in most jurisdictions), landscaping The permit process involves: 1. Submit plans (for larger projects — may require architect or engineer stamp) 2. Plan check review by building department 3. Issue permit 4. Construction proceeds 5. Inspections at…