The Capitol Connection is our weekly Q & A column for contractors that focuses on topics pertaining to contractor's licensing.
The Chinese character for crisis is the same as that for opportunity. With the recession requiring contractors to find new ways and new avenues to profit, the idea of qualifying a new license is one frequent topic of conversation. I am also discovering that some contractors are looking farther away to find work now… Q: We…
While contractors have worked wonders in building the Golden State, even they can’t be in five places at once! Another contractor hopes to shed some ‘light’ on how General Engineering contractors can soak up some ‘green’ profits. And finally, another lesson in Public Works Bidding 101… Q: Can an “A” (Gen Engineering) license install wind generators…
California’s complex laws and some common misconceptions can frustrate both contractors and those who may desire a license. A simple name change, or even a lack of a clear understanding of the rules, can ‘mow down’ your business plan before it gets started. That’s where I come in, to help clear the air and provide that…
These contractor inquiries about rules and regulations regarding electrical and hazardous removal have been assembled from past columns, and answer some of the questions contractors are asking now. Plugging into hi tech power demand and removing what was once ‘state of the art’ in building tech require special certification before going to work… Q: As a…
For contractors a suspended license may mean suspended payment. Getting back to business is going to be a job for this contractor who can’t work until he ‘builds’ a case to explain what happened. How you ask the question will often determine what answer you get. When I am helping contractors with real-world worksite and bureaucratic…
If you could get a contractor’s license without lots of testing wouldn’t it be great? Well you probably can if you cross the California border. When does ‘managing’ a construction project for an owner cross the line and require a contractor’s license? These are just a few of the many questions contractors need to answer, and…
Like Winston Smith in Orwell’s “1984”, contractors are also discovering that government wants them to believe that ‘less is more’ when it comes to fees they pay for licensing. The fees remain the same, but you’ll be getting less for them. First, a lawyer discovers that government workers can also give the ‘wrong’ answer to the…
While the 3% goal for including certified disabled-veteran owned companies (DVBE) remains in place, goals for other ‘disadvantaged’ businesses providing goods and services in California have changed. Remember Proposition 209? We also open a ‘vent’ to let some fresh air in on unlicensed activity being promoted online… Q: I would like to get certified as a…
What would a level playing field look like for contractors? How do partnerships help the State clamp down on unlicensed contractors and illegal activities? What is the CSLB doing to help legitimate contractors during this severe economic downturn? These were among the issues addressed on June 18th at the Holiday Inn Capitol Plaza in Sacramento. When…