Did you get at least (3) local references from the contractors you are considering?
     Did you call them?

Building permits - will the contractor get a permit before the work starts?

Does the three-day right to cancel a contract apply to you?
     Contact the CSLB if you don’t know.

Does the contract tell you when work will start and end?

Does the contract include a complete description of the work to be done, the material that will be used and equipment to be installed?
     This description should include a scale drawings, brand names, model numbers, quantities, and colors.
     Specific descriptions now will prevent disputes later.

Are you required to pay a down payment?
     The down payment should never be more than 10% of the contract price or $1,000, whichever is less.

Is there a schedule of payments?
     If there is a schedule of payments, your should pay only as work is completed and not before.
     There are some exceptions - contact the CSLB: www.cslb.ca.gov or 1-800-321-CSLB (2752) to find out what they are.

Did your contractor give you a “Notice to Owner,” a warning notice describing liens and ways to prevent them?
     Even if you pay your contractor, a lien can be placed on your home by unpaid laborers, subcontractors, or material suppliers.
     A lien can result in you paying twice or, in some cases, losing your home in a foreclosure.
     Check the “Notice to Owner,” for ways to protect yourself.

Did you know changes or additions to your contract must be in writing?
     Putting changes in writing reduces the possibility of any later dispute.

What does this insurance cover?
     Commercial General Liability Insurance can protect against third-party bodily injury and accidental property damage.
     It in not intended to cover the work the contractor preforms.

Is this insurance required?
     No. But the Contractors State License Board strongly recommends that all contractors carry it.
     The Board cautions you to evaluate the risk to your family and property when you hire a contractor who is not insured.
     Ask yourself if something went wrong, would this contractor be able to cover losses ordinarily covered by insurance?

How can I make sure the contractor is insured?
     If he or she is insured, the contractor is required by law to provide you with the name and telephone number of the insurance
     company. Check with the insurance company to verify that the contractor’s insurance coverage will cover your project.

What about a contractor who is self-insured?
     A self-insured contractor has made a business decision to be personally responsible for losses that would be ordinarily be
     covered by insurance. Before contracting with a self-insured contractor, ask yourself, if something went wrong, would this
     contractor be able to cover losses that should be covered by insurance?

     “Licensed contractors are regulated by laws designed to protect the public. If you contract with someone who does not have a
     license, the contractor’s state license board may be unable to assist you with a complaint. Your only remedy against an unlicensed
     contractor may be in civil court, and you may be liable for damages arising out of any injuries to the contractor or his or her
     employees.”

     “You may contact the contractor’s state license board to find out if this contractor has a valid license. The board has complete
     information on the history of licensed contractors, including any possible suspensions, revocations, judgements, and citations. The
     board has offices throughout California. Please check the government pages of the white pages for the office nearest you or call
     1-800-321-CSLB (2752) or visit there web site: www.cslb.ca.gov for more information.”