One Arrested as CSLB Sting Operation Uncovers Unlicensed Contracting in Walnut Creek

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SACRAMENTO, CA – The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) recently teamed up with the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office and the San Mateo Police Department in an undercover sting targeting unlicensed contractors in Walnut Creek.

On January 22 and 23, 13 individuals were cited with a Notice to Appear in criminal court after allegedly offering contracting services without a valid contractor’s license. One of these individuals was arrested on an outstanding warrant in Santa Clara County for contracting without a license.

Their bids ranged from $1,200 for a bathroom remodel to $12,000 for a painting project. Under California law, a contractor’s license is required for any construction project valued over $1,000, including labor and materials. If the project requires workers or a permit, a contractor’s license is required no matter the project cost.

The individuals could face legal consequences including administrative fines up to $15,000 and misdemeanor charges with sentences of up to six months in jail and a $5,000 criminal fine. Repeat offenders face harsher penalties, including a mandatory 90-day jail sentence and a fine of $5,000 or 20 percent of the contract price – whichever is greater.

Those caught in this sting may also face administrative or criminal charges for illegally advertising construction services without a valid license. California law requires all licensed contractors to display their license number on business materials, including advertisements, vehicles, and business cards. Unlicensed individuals may only advertise for jobs under $1,000 (including materials and labor), and they must clearly state in all advertisements that they are not licensed.

Additionally, one stop order was issued where the individual failed to provide workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. The individual had brought the worker to the sting site.

“CSLB remains committed to safeguarding homeowners from the dangers of hiring unlicensed contractors,” said CSLB Registrar David Fogt. “Educating consumers about the importance of working with licensed professionals is a top priority. We strongly encourage all California homeowners to verify a contractor’s license before beginning any construction project.”

Contra Costa District Attorney Diana Becton said: “Unlicensed contractors, or contractors who do not carry workers’ compensation insurance, put homeowners at risk of financial and safety hazards. Our office is committed to holding them accountable and ensuring that consumers are not taken advantage of.”