Step 2: Verify licensing (don’t skip this)

In California, contractor licensing is not optional for most significant construction work. Verifying a license protects you.

Use CSLB’s official license check tool here:

https://www.cslb.ca.gov/onlineservices/checklicenseII/checklicense.aspx

CSLB also provides consumer guidance on hiring the right contractor here:

https://www.cslb.ca.gov/consumers/hire_a_contractor/finding_the_right_contractor.aspx

Beyond licensing, ask about insurance and how the contractor protects homeowners throughout the project.