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Remodeling · Sourced answer

How do I properly vet a general contractor, verify their license, bonding, and workers' compensation insurance?

Homeowners want to protect themselves against contractor fraud, abandoned jobs, mechanic's liens, and uninsured workplace injury liability.

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The answer

  1. Verify license on state licensing board portal (e.g. CSLB Check-a-License): status must be 'Active' with no pending disciplinary suspensions, proper classification (Class B General Building), and an active surety bond.
  2. Require the contractor's insurance broker to provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) naming the homeowner as Certificate Holder/Additional Insured with general liability and active Workers' Compensation (ensure no improper worker exemptions if crew is on-site).
  3. Check 3 local references for projects completed within the last 12–24 months, confirm physical address, and review complaints with local HBA/NARI/FTC.

Sources

This answer is drawn from the standards and guidance below. It is general information about how these systems work — not a diagnosis of your property.

  1. California CSLB Finding the Right Licensed Contractor
  2. FTC Consumer Advice Avoiding Home Improvement Scams