How to Choose a Contractor in Southern California

The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) receives over 20,000 complaints per year. Many are avoidable if homeowners know what to look for before hiring.

8 Things to Verify

1. CSLB License. Verify at cslb.ca.gov. Confirm the license classification matches your project (B for general, C-20 for HVAC, C-10 for electrical, etc.).
2. Insurance. Ask for a certificate of insurance. They should carry general liability ($1M+) and workers' comp. Call the insurance company to verify it's current.
3. Written contract. California law requires a written contract for any job over $500. It must include scope, timeline, payment schedule, and change order procedures.
4. Payment schedule. Never pay more than 10% or $1,000 down (whichever is less) — this is California law. Walk away from anyone demanding more upfront.
5. References. Ask for 3 recent projects similar to yours. Call them. Visit the sites if possible.
6. Permit history. Good contractors pull permits. Ask if they'll handle the permit process.
7. Timeline. Get a written timeline with milestones. Delays are the #1 complaint.
8. Communication. How responsive are they during the quoting process? That's the best they'll ever be.

Why Peck General

We're a veteran-owned, CSLB-licensed general contractor with in-house crews for every trade. One point of contact, one contractor, one phone call: (760) 391-2458.