The Capitol Connection is our weekly Q & A column for contractors that focuses on topics pertaining to contractor's licensing.
When I get feedback from a column “Q&A” we all benefit from knowing, whether it’s the exception or the rule. Truly, we are never too old to learn, or in some cases, too young to be licensed. Unfortunately, as another contractor teaches us, your livelihood can suffer if you allow a license to actually ‘die’. Our…
When it comes to unlicensed contractors or unfair competition, the CSLB is on the hunt in California. You can bet when they get a clue, SWIFT action follows. Concern about those cheating legitimate licensed contractors in the ‘underground economy’ goes all the way to the top, as State officials will be happy to explain. Finally, a…
Attention! I will address some “general” questions for the troops. At ease! We brief contractors and conquer some misconceptions about the General Building license and how it can be used. Another contractor wants his son to take a big ‘stride forward’ to follow his father’s footsteps. However, we all learn that getting started may be tougher…
One question often leads to another. That’s the first sign you may need to ask an expert as our opening indicates. As the economy has slowed many contractors find they have more questions than bid opportunities. Serious questions need to be asked when someone wants you, as a licensed contractor, to be ‘responsible’ for their work……
If you give your license number to a corporation can you ever get it back? Even attorneys seem confused about this issue. Another contractor needs renewals in two states and an out-of-state builder has a ‘short’ question about certifying electricians in California… Q: My boss wants me to take care of renewing our Contractor License in…
In assisting contractors with licensing for more than 25 years, I occasionally run into those ‘peculiar’ situations that only crop up now and then as law is translated into actual practice. However, don’t think you’re safe because, as I share with you here, you could be that ‘one-in-a-million’. A son will need to show some extra…
Will public works contractors face more regulatory hurdles in the future? A ‘partnership’ taking a new direction may need help. But first, subs will appreciate reading more about legal requirements that they get paid on time without any excuses… Q: I am a plumbing subcontractor and do a lot of work for General Contractors (GC). Lately…
As backward as it may seem if a public entity says they want a plumber to install their electrical wiring they can do that. Granted, this may be an extreme example. However, what may be ‘proper’ isn’t always the most ‘acceptable’ alternative when bidding a public project as our first question illustrates. Another contractor learns what’s…
When something old is rebuilt or remodeled, specific rules may apply to contractors making those home improvements in California. What’s the ‘fallout’ from this rule in new construction? Another contractor is ‘dead’ certain he sent his renewal in on time, but it didn’t save his license from ‘expiring’. When should you send in a renewal to…