The Capitol Connection is our weekly Q & A column for contractors that focuses on topics pertaining to contractor's licensing.
While not a lawyer, I am often asked to provide expert interpretation regarding contractor’s license law. With nearly 30 years assisting contractors in Sacramento this is often enough experience to settle a ‘bet’. These two contractor questions demonstrate why it’s important to know the answer before you play your ‘cards’… Q: Dear Mr. Kalb: I am…
While one of my missions in life is to assist contractors, I often hear from attorneys and others with questions about construction industry issues. First, I field a question and ‘kickback’ new guidance on getting paid for ‘referrals.’ We also catch up on the latest CSLB discussions… I have responded to questions about Referral Fees…
I’m back to work with a ‘jolt’ of renewed energy! Good thing, as our first contractor has an electrical problem. For some contractors work has been scarce and many are looking at options for expanding their base. Some are exploring new specialty classes, starting new businesses, allying with other contractors and finding other means to make…
One of my greatest pleasures is hearing from readers who often respond to a particular column they’ve read. Here’s some feedback from readers like you… In a recent column your answer to the question on the HAZ CERTIFICATION is not complete. For instance, a General Building (B) contractor could bring a qualifier for the “C-36”…
If you are not a regular reader, you may not know that you can access this column and others going back years with a single word search on my website, which our first contractor found useful… Q: First, let me thank you so much for the resources on your website. I’m new to the industry and…
As an expert I often find myself correcting mistaken impressions, outdated ideas or erroneous ‘knowledge’ because the complex rules of contracting are not ‘concrete’ but change over time. It’s practically a full time job to keep up! In this session, we will revisit some of the problems that arise from ‘knowing’ too much and understanding too…
Consumers may consider hiring a ‘handyman’ but how do the rules apply when a licensed contractor hires them? I help a license qualifier find his way forward after walking away from a job. Finally, of interest to all, is our update on Board efforts to keep a level playing field for contractors … Q: As…
Like rising summer temperatures, optimism is on the upswing as contractors begin to see opportunity again in the Golden State. Our first question comes from one such an optimistic Californian. Another contractor actually answers his own question, but for everyone’s benefit we ‘employ’ my expertise in explaining it for all… Q: I was reading your Kalb’s…
You likely won’t know them, hear about them or see them, but CSLB investigators are waiting to ‘sting’ criminals pretending to be contractors in CA. As State budgets are impacted by reductions across the board, SWIFT agents are allying with local law enforcement in their efforts to protect consumer and contractor alike from damages caused by…