Tables are turned on unlicensed contractor

Pool & Spa News, Nov 1, 2004

A California contractor, calling himself a consultant, was fined outside of small claims court when he tried to sue a client for unpaid services. The case involved an unhappy El Dorado County homeowner who withheld half of the consultant's fee. An investigator from the Contractors State License Board showed up at the courthouse before the case was heard, and fined the consultant $2,000 for building without a license and illegal advertising.

The small-claims case was dismissed because the consultant didn't make it to the hearing. Self-described consultants must obtain a contractor's license in California. The CSLB is cracking down on the increasing number of unlicensed contractors. The board advises consumers to verify a contractor's license online at www.cslb.ca.gov, or by calling (800) 321-2752.