Who Can File A CSLB Complaint?
You’re eligible to file a complaint with the Contractors State License Board (“CSLB”) if you’re a homeowner, contractor, subcontractor, employee, or a public agency. To file a complaint with the CSLB you can simply call 1-800-321-2752 or Click Here.
What Is The Basis For A CSLB Complaint?
Complaints can arise when an owner or contractor dispute the terms of their contract, or a contractor has violated the California Contractors State License Law (Bus. & Prof. Code, § 7000 et seq.). Potential Contractors State License Law violations may include:
- Abandonment of the project
- Diversion of funds
- Fraud
- Failure to pay employees or subcontractors
- Departure from work standards or plans
- Violation of safety requirements
- Violation of state and local laws
- Failure to keep records
- Refusal to cooperate with Registrar of Contractors
- Contracting under suspended or expired license
- Acting outside license classifications
- Contracting with unlicensed persons
- Failure to obtain local permit
- Failure to give notices required under Home Improvement Contract statutes
- Failure to maintain workers’ compensation coverage
What Happens After You File A CSLB Complaint?
Once filed, the complaint will be referred to a CSLB Consumer Services Representative (“CSR”) who will attempt to help facilitate a resolution. The complaint may be referred to mandatory, binding arbitration if the dispute does not exceed $15,000. The Complaint may be referred to voluntary, binding arbitration if the dispute exceeds $15,000 but is not greater than $50,000. The arbitrator’s award may be filed with the court, resulting in a civil judgment.
What Disciplinary Action Can Occur After A CSLB Complaint Is Filed?
If the CSLB suspects that the contractor has violated the Contractors State License Law, then, in addition to mandatory or voluntary arbitration, a referral to an Enforcement Representative (“ER”) may be made and a formal investigation performed. If a license law violation is discovered, the CSLB may:
- Issue an advisory letter
- Issue a letter of admonishment
- Issue a citation
- File an Accusation to suspend or revoke the contractor’s license
- Make a referral to a local District Attorney to take criminal action
- File a petition for an injunction