Local Officials Emphasize: Use LICENSED Contractors Only!

From the County of Napa:

The Contractors State License Board and local law enforcement are warning of unlicensed contractor scams in Napa County as repairs begin following the 6.0 magnitude earthquake on Aug. 24.

Napa County residents and businesses that experienced damage are encouraged to ONLY hire California-licensed contractors.

How do I know if a contractor is licensed?

Residents can check for licensure by contacting the Contractors State License Board at www.cslb.ca.gov or www.checkthelicensefirst.com, or by calling 1-800-321-CSLB (2752).

Property owners can find the licensing background of their contractor and have access to publications and videos that explain consumer rights and best practices when hiring a contractor.

How do I report an unlicensed contractor?

Sweep and undercover enforcement operations are being planned in the earthquake-affected areas in Napa County. Unlicensed contractors can be reported by calling (916) 255-2924 or visiting http://www.cslb.ca.gov/Consumers/ReportUnlicensedActivity/.

What should I know before hiring a contractor?

The Contractors State License Board recommends the following guidelines before hiring a contractor:

· Don’t hire the first contractor who comes along;

· Get at least three bids, check references, and get a written contract;

· Don’t rush into repairs, no matter how badly they are needed;

· Hire only licensed contractors and ask to see their license and a photo ID to ensure they are who they say they are;

· Don’t pay more than 10 percent or $1,000, whichever is less, as a down payment. There is an exception for about two dozen licenses who carry special bonds to protect consumers. These exceptions are noted on the Contractor State Licenses Board’s website at www.cslb.ca.gov; and

· Do not pay in cash, and don’t let payments get ahead of the work.

[Related: BAY AREA QUAKE: Click here for Patch’s Full Earthquake Coverage.]