SANTA ROSA –  In a proactive approach to protect victims of the North Bay fires who are now repairing or rebuilding their homes, California Contractors State License Board investigators conducted an undercover sting in Santa Rosa January 27, 2018.

The investigators posed as fire victims at a damaged home, seeking framing, plumbing and electrical work.  During the undercover operation, investigators received bids from 10 people suspected of contracting without a license.  In addition, they cited three others suspected of fraudulent advertising.

CSLB and the Sonoma County District Attorney’s Office warn unlicensed contractors that felony charges can be filed when suspects contract without a license in declared disaster areas.

“These fire victims have been through enough heartbreak and loss,” said California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) President Alan Barcelona.  “They don’t need unqualified and unscrupulous individuals jumping in with offers of great work and low bids.  Licensed contractors have been checked out by the state and have all the proper insurance.”

If convicted of felony charges involving unlicensed contracting, those cited could face up to three years in prison and a $10,000 fine.