Construction fraud was a big problem in the aftermath of the Woolsey Fire. Officials are hoping to help give homeowners the tools they need to avoid problems.
Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin and the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) recently offered a live webinar to provide guidance for property owners seeking to hire contractors for their rebuild. The talk included advice on hiring and working with licensed contractors, understanding contracts and avoiding fraud.
David Fogt is the registrar for the California Contractors Board. He cautions that unlicensed contractors are coming into the area and warns that scammers are unscrupulous and deliberately prey on fire victims.“There was a crook in Paradise [after the Camp Fire] who used someone else’s name and license number,” he says.
“Truly understand who you are working with,” he warns. “So you are not taken advantage of by being paid for something they don’t provide.”
Fogt recommends asking for references, and information on similar jobs. “Has the contractor you are considering hiring done this kind of work? What is the timeline? Be careful to read everything… Do they have their own employees? Worker compensation? Who is overseeing? Will they be onsite?”
Licensed contractors must provide their license number which can be verified at cslb.com. Anyone who contracts for bids over $1,000 must be licensed. Contractors are required to have permits in place and they should understand permit rules, and be responsible for meeting permit needs.
It’s important to be sure contractors are working with the project’s architect and design planners, and to ensure the scope of work is understood by everyone working on the bid.
It’s also important to get everything in writing. “Don’t sign online on a tablet,” Fogt warns. “Or if you do, make sure to print it out. Don’t be rushed into a decision you might regret. Read contracts carefully and ensure the scope of work is detailed.”
Unlawful construction activity should be reported, and so should any instances of fraud. Fogt stressed that CSLP takes all reports seriously and will investigate, but that it is important to put concerns in writing.
Rebuilding after a fire is incredibly challenging without pitfalls like construction scams. Finding the right contractor is essential.
For more information, visit cslp.ca.gov/disaster
