How do I file a complaint against a California contractor?
Answered by Netanel Presman, General Contractor (CSLB #1105249) · Updated
Short answer
File a complaint with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) online at cslb.ca.gov or by mail using Form 6A. CSLB investigates violations of license law including abandonment, poor workmanship, fraud, and unlicensed work. Small-claims court (up to $12,500) handles monetary disputes. For breach-of-contract claims over $12,500, file in superior court or pursue bond claims.
In detail
California's Contractors State License Board is the primary enforcement agency for licensed contractors. Multiple paths exist depending on what you want.
Path 1: CSLB disciplinary complaint (for license-law violations):
- Online: CSLB complaint form at cslb.ca.gov.
- Form 6A mailed to CSLB Intake, P.O. Box 269116, Sacramento.
- Violations: abandonment, departure from plans, failure to complete, willful disregard of code, fraud, contracting without a license, exceeding license class, failure to obtain permits, failure to pay employees or subs.
- Investigation timeline: 6-18 months.
- Possible outcomes: citation with fine, license suspension, license revocation, criminal referral.
Path 2: CSLB arbitration program (mandatory for disputes $12,500-$50,000):
- Licensed contractors required by B&P Code §7085 to participate.
- Binding or non-binding depending on project size.
- Free to consumers for disputes under $15,000.
Path 3: Small-claims court (monetary up to $12,500 for individuals):
- File at the local superior court. No attorney required.
- Typical timeline: 30-75 days to hearing.
Path 4: Civil court (disputes over $12,500 or complex claims):
- Breach of contract, negligence, fraud.
- Often involves construction attorney.
- Discovery, mediation, arbitration, trial — typically 9-24 months.
Path 5: License bond claim:
- Every licensed CA contractor carries a $25,000 contractor's bond.
- Consumers can claim against the bond for specific covered losses.
- Claim form available through CSLB.
Documentation to include with any complaint:
- Signed contract and any change orders.
- Permit records and inspection reports.
- Photos of site condition at key dates.
- Payment records (cancelled checks, credit card statements).
- All written communication.
- Names and contact info of all subs and suppliers.
AskBaily's LA contractor pool is verified against CSLB daily. If a matched contractor's license status changes, we remove them from rotation immediately.
Sources
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