An ‘unlimited’ answer in assisting our first contractor has one limitation! The second answer takes a different ‘form’ as a Qualifier replaces himself. While we take ‘time’ for one more RMO, we are also always happy to help a contractor’s family work through the regulations…
Q: We have a corporation that is licensed with an RMO (Responsible Managing Officer). We want to obtain several new license numbers under different ‘dba’ (doing business as) names. So same corporation, but with multiple dba’s. Is there a limit as to how many licenses we can qualify for under the same entity with the same RMO? Can they be done all at the same time?
A: No, there is no limit to how many licenses an entity can have under different dba names. Keep in mind that in order for the RMO to qualify all the licenses, you must list the exact same personnel on each license.
An individual cannot have multiple applications in process with the CSLB at the same time, so you will be required to apply for each one separately.
Q: I was hired as an RME (Responsible Managing Employee) for my company about 7 years ago and I am now an Officer. We recently received our renewal application which still has me as the RME and I know we need to notify them of the change, but it doesn’t seem correct to complete an “Application to Report Change of Corporate Title for Current Officer” of a Corporation, because I’m not technically a “current officer”. Should I complete the “Application to Add a New Officer to a Corporation”?
A: Actually you’ll need to submit a “Replacing the Qualifying Individual” application. It sounds a bit funny but you are replacing yourself as the RME in order to become the RMO (Responsible Managing Officer).
Q: As an RMO for my company, is there a specified amount of time that I’m required to be on each job location?
A: There is no specified amount of time that a Qualifying Individual is required to be on a specific job site. However, the CSLB does have rules for the amount of time RME’s are required to work, however that is not the case for RMO’s. As is the case for all Qualifiers (both RME’s and RMO’s), the “R” stands for “Responsible”. According to rule 823 of the California Code of Regulations, the responsibilities of a Qualifier is to provide direct supervision and control in any one of the following: supervising construction, managing construction activities by making technical and administrative decisions, checking jobs for proper workmanship, or direct supervision on construction job sites.
Q: I’ve heard of family businesses where a son inherits his father’s contractor’s license when the father retires. Would this apply for a son-in-law as well? I wasn’t sure if the different last name would raise a red flag. Would he be required to take the exams?
A: Yes, in the eyes of the Contractors State License Board, a son-in-law is considered an immediate family member. If your son-in-law has been an employee and actively engaged in your business for at least five years out of the previous seven, then he can request to take over your Sole Owner license and Waive the exams.