Let’s break in with an alarming answer to get started. I will own up with an attorney asking a question, and help a General before wrapping up by opening a ‘window’ for an out of state contractor on siding…
Q: Now that I have my “C-10” (Electrical) license, do you know if I also need obtain an Alarm Company Operator license, or is this all covered when I got my “C-10”?
A: It is my understanding the alarm company operator licensed through the BSIS (Bureau of Security and Investigative Services) is for companies that install, maintain, monitor, and sell burglar alarm systems. Fire alarm work is covered with your “C-10” license.
Q: I am an attorney and I’ve used you for licensing assistance in the past. I have another client in the construction industry who wanted to know whether they need to remain an Owner of their business in order to remain a Responsible Managing Officer (RMO). I believe that as long as they remain an Officer of the company (i.e., President, Secretary or CFO), they can still be listed as the RMO even if they don’t own any shares of the company, is that a correct interpretation?
A: Yes, you are correct. An RMO is not required to have any ownership in the Company unless he/she also qualifies another active license.
Q: I am working on getting the class “A” (General Engineering) license for our Company’s operations. I have someone who has the class “A” (a former owner of an acquired company) who does not work for us currently. Is it allowed in CA for him to be the license holder even though he does not work for our Company or have a stake in the organization?
A: The qualifying individual on a license needs to either be an officer or an employee of the Company holding the license. Sometimes companies will bring on a qualifying individual as VP or something which classifies them as an officer, but they don’t need to meet the hour requirement (Responsible Managing Employees are required to work at least 32 hours a week), and they don’t need to collect a paycheck as an officer. However, even if you were to designate the ‘A’ qualifier with an officer title, he/she would still be responsible for overseeing work performed by your Company and managing the Company’s construction activities.
Q: We are a Minnesota company and are looking to do some work for a large Development Company in CA. We need a contractor’s license for windows and siding. What type of license do we need for that and how long does it take to obtain?
A: Thank you for contacting me. You would actually require a license with two classifications, a “C-17” (Glazing/Window) license, and a “C-61”/ “D-41” (Siding). The Glazing has a trade exam but the “C-61” classifications do not. You can only apply for one classification at a time so I would suggest you start with the “C-17” which will allow your Qualifier to take the Glazing trade and law exams, and then once the license is issued, you can add the C-61”/ “D-41” and your Qualifier would not need to take any exams (assuming you are using the same person for both classifications). Let me know if you would like our assistance with the process!