Attorney General Bonta warns against hiring unlicensed contractors, price gouging in aftermath of winter storms

California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a consumer alert warning Californians to beware of fake and unlicensed contractors soliciting their services to Californians affected by damage from the recent winter storms.

In the alert, Bonta urges Californians to take precautions by hiring only licensed contractors and reminds businesses that price gouging during a state of emergency is illegal under Penal Code Section 396. As noted by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB), anyone who contracts for work in a state or federal natural disaster area without an active state contractor license may be subject to felony charges.

“As Californians recover from the devastating storms, the last thing they should worry about is being scammed by bad actors,” said Bonta. “We will not tolerate those who take advantage of consumers during this time of struggle for many. I urge all Californians to be diligent and do their research before making any kind of home repair through a contractor. Additionally, if you believe you have been a victim of price gouging, report it to your local authorities or to my office at oag.ca.gov/report.”

“Disaster survivors take a huge risk when they hire unlicensed contractors,” said CSLB Registrar David Fogt. “Most are not properly insured and likely don't have the skills or knowledge to perform the work. It is important to verify on CSLB'S website the person you are working with is included on CSLB'S license records.”

The California Department of Justice works closely with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) to ensure residents do not fall victim to unlicensed home reparation and reconstruction services. As a reminder, CSLB encourages everyone to check all contractors' license numbers on the CSLB website and check each contractor's pocket license to confirm the listed personnel on the license. Complaints against contractors for unlicensed practices and other violations of contractor's license law can be filed online.

Additional tips and recommendations from CSLB:DON'T rush into repairs or cleanup, no matter how badly they're needed.

• Don't sign over any payment checks from your insurance company.

• Hire only Californialicensed contractors. Ask to see the license. The license number must be on all ads, contracts, and business cards.

• Don't pay more than 10 percent down or $1,000 — whichever is less.

• Don't pay cash, and don't let the payments get ahead of the work. Only pay for work as it is completed to your satisfaction.

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