Guides for hiring a contractor in the Bay Area, CA
Short answers first. Every rule links to the CSLB page or code section it comes from, with the date we checked it.
Check a contractor
- How to verify a contractor license in California Search the license number on CSLB's Check a License page. 9 sources, checked Oct 18, 2026
- B vs B-2 license: which contractor can take your job A B (General Building) license covers any building job that combines two or more unrelated trades besides framing, in homes or businesses, new or existing. 5 sources, checked Oct 18, 2026
- Contractor bond and insurance requirements in California Every active California contractor license carries a $25,000 contractor's bond, the required amount since Jan 1, 2023. 6 sources, checked Oct 18, 2026
- How to check and report a contractor in California CSLB shows complaint information on a license record only where the law allows it to, plus construction-related civil judgments reported to it. 5 sources, checked Oct 18, 2026
Plan a home project
- How to choose a general contractor in the Bay Area Shortlist three contractors whose license class fits your job, and check each license, bond and workers' comp on CSLB before you talk price. 4 sources, checked Oct 18, 2026
- 12 questions to ask before hiring a contractor in California Ask for the license number, insurance records, a list of exclusions and a payment schedule before you sign. 3 sources, checked Oct 19, 2026