Senator Roth Issues Consumer Scam Alert in the Aftermath of Hurricane Hilary

Riverside, CA—Senator Richard D. Roth (D-Riverside) today issued a Consumer Scam Alert in the aftermath of Hurricane Hilary, warning residents to hire a licensed contractor when making repairs.

“It's an unfortunate fact of life, but every major disaster brings out the scam artists,” said Roth. “With Hurricane Hilary pounding our region, many of us will be looking to repair the damage that was caused. It's important to remember to only hire a licensed contractor”

Contractors working on a job—from debris removal to rebuilding—totaling $500 or more for labor and materials-- must be licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). To become licensed, a contractor must pass a licensing examination, verify at least four years of journey-level experience, carry a license bond, and pass a criminal background check.

Here are ten tips from the CSLB to make sure your contractor measures up:

1. Hire only state-licensed contractors.

2. Check a contractor's license number online at www.cslb.ca.gov or by calling 800.321.CSLB (2752).

3. Get at least three bids.

4. Get three references from each bidder and review past work in person.

5. Make sure all project expectations are in writing and only sign the contract if you completely understand the terms.

6. Confirm that the contractor has workers' compensation insurance for employees.

7. Avoid paying more than 10% down or $1,000, whichever is less.* Avoid paying in cash.

8. Avoid letting payments get ahead of the work.

9. Keep a job file of all papers relating to your project, including all payments.

10. Avoid making the final payment until you're satisfied with the job.

* There is an exception to this rule for about a dozen contractors who have filed a blanket performance and payment bond with the Registrar. This information is noted on the contractor's license detail page on CSLB's website. CheckTheLicenseFirst.com.