“These undercover stings conducted by CSLB investigators work to educate and protect the public.  In addition, those unlicensed contractors placing bids with the investigators face fines and confinement for their illegal activity.”

CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

ELK GROVE – In mid-July, the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) conducted an undercover sting operation targeting unlicensed contractors in Sacramento County. CSLB’s Statewide Investigative Fraud Team (SWIFT) went undercover in Elk Grove, citing 11 unlicensed operators who placed bids ranging from about $2,100 for replacing siding to as much as $17,500 for concrete work – all above the $500 threshold that requires a contractor’s license.

In California, contracting without a license provides for administrative fines up to $15,000 and can be charged as a misdemeanor with sentences of up to six months in jail and a $5,000 criminal fine. A second offense results in a mandatory 90-day jail sentence and a fine of 20 percent of the contract price or $5,000 – whichever is greater.

“CSLB is dedicated to protecting homeowners from the risks posed by unlicensed contractors,” said David Fogt, CSLB Registrar. “We continually educate consumers on the importance of hiring licensed contractors and urge homeowners to verify a contractor’s license before starting any construction project in California.”