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CSLB Press Release - 11/06/2002

New Consumer Guide Offered on Hiring Roofers


SACRAMENTO — The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) has just produced a new booklet for consumers, Tips for Hiring a Roofing Contractor: A Consumer's Rights & Responsibilities. In anticipation of the rainy season, homeowners may rush to hire a contractor for roof replacement or repair without taking the time to properly check out and hire a licensed, qualified contractor. This new informative booklet offers timely advice to consumers.

"As you prepare for wet weather, don't let your desire to quickly hire a roofing contractor cloud your good judgement. Do your home improvement homework and take the time to check out your contractor with the CSLB," cautioned CSLB Registrar Steve Sands.

For example, roofers who perform work priced at $500 or more (labor and materials) must be licensed by the CSLB. The CSLB can verify the contractor's name, address and type of license, if the license is current, if there are any legal actions against the license, and if there is workers' compensation insurance and a license bond.

To qualify for a license, contractors must pass a written examination; verify four years of journey-level experience in their trade; post a license bond; and show proof of workers' compensation insurance, if needed.

Tips for Hiring a Roofing Contractor: A Consumer's Rights & Responsibilities includes consumer tips on hiring licensed contractors, repairing vs. replacing their roof and how to responsibly manage a roofing project. This consumer guide and licensing information is available free of charge on CSLB's Web site, www.cslb.ca.gov.

The CSLB, which operates under the umbrella of the California Department of Consumer Affairs, licenses 278,000 contractors in California and investigates 25,000 complaints against licensed and unlicensed contractors every year.