Unlicensed Contractors
In an ongoing statewide sting operation aimed at unlicensed contractors, a dozen local tradespeople in Menifee have been cited for placing excessive bids on construction projects without having earned a contractor’s license.
To protect consumers, state law dictates that contractors cannot bid on work for more than $500 if they are unlicensed.
The California Contractors State License Board, (CSLB) SWIFT operation (Statewide Investigative Fraud Team) has been targeting unlicensed contractors in counties from the Oregon to Mexican borders. In the last week of September, it teamed with Menifee Police and the Riverside County D.A.’s office, putting out bid requests to suspected unlicensed contractors in Menifee.
In response, investigators received bids for various construction undertakings, ranging from $2,300 to $31,590, for landscaping, painting, and masonry projects. The cap on unlicensed work is $500 including materials and labor.
For consumer protection, contractors cannot demand a downpayment over the lesser of 10% of the bid or $1,000.
Six of the alleged unlicensed contractors asked for more.
“CSLB is committed to safeguarding homeowners from the dangers posed by unlicensed contractors,” said CSLB Registrar David Fogt. “We strive to consistently inform consumers about the value of hiring licensed contractors and strongly encourage California homeowners to check a contractor’s license before beginning any construction project.”
Checking on a contractor’s license also provides the consumer with a glimpse into any possible complaints or sanctions.
Potential penalties for the 12 cited and three others referred to the D.A. include administrative fines of up to $15,000, jail sentences of up to six months, and fines of up to $5,000. Repeat offenders may face a mandatory 90-day jail sentence and a fine of $5,000 or 20 percent of the contract price, whichever is greater.
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