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CSLB Press Release - 04/04/2001

Flex Your Power: State Agency Offers Tips and Free Materials on Hiring Energy Conservation Contractors


SACRAMENTO — The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) urges homeowners to save energy wisely by hiring qualified and licensed contractors to make energy conservation upgrades to homes. The CSLB is offering a free "Flex Your Power" brochure that describes the kinds of contractors homeowners might hire for energy conservation work, advice on hiring contractors, and energy conservation tips. Contact the CSLB at (800) 321-CSLB or click here to receive a copy of the brochure.

"I encourage all homeowners to conserve energy and take steps to make their homes energy efficient; but don't let our current energy challenge cause you to make hurried decisions about hiring contractors," said CSLB Registrar Stephen P. Sands.

Energy conservation work can include insulation, window replacement, heating and air conditioning, and weatherization. Contractors are required to have a license from the CSLB for any job costing $500 or more (materials and labor).

"Always hire licensed contractors, get several bids and references, insist on a written contract, and check out your contractor with the Contractors State License Board," said Sands.

The CSLB advises consumers to follow these tips when hiring any contractor:

  • Hire only licensed contractors
  • Check a contractor's license number at www.cslb.ca.gov or at (800) 321-CSLB (2752)
  • Get three references and review past work
  • Get at least three bids
  • Get a written contract and don't sign anything until you completely understand the terms
  • Pay 10% down or $1,000, whichever is less
  • Don't let payments get ahead of the work and keep records of payments
  • Don't make final payment until you're satisfied with the job
  • Don't pay cash
  • Keep a job file of all papers related to your project
  • Don't be talked into more work than you need done

The Contractors State License Board operates under the California Department of Consumer Affairs. CSLB licenses and regulates California's 278,000 contractors, and investigates 25,000 complaints against contractors annually.