Undercover Operation in Bakersfield Busts 12 Unlicensed Contractors
The Contractors State License Board (CSLB), in partnership with the Kern County District Attorney’s Office and the California Department of Insurance, conducted an undercover sting operation that led to 12 individuals being accused of contracting without a license.
The operation, held on August 14 and 15 at a residence in Bakersfield, resulted in the 12 individuals receiving Notices to Appear in criminal court. According to a CSLB press release, these individuals submitted bids up to $5,000 for projects involving electrical work, painting, flooring, and landscaping.
Under California law, contractors must be licensed if they advertise or undertake construction work valued at $500 or more, including labor and materials. The individuals in this case violated state regulations by advertising their services without disclosing that they were unlicensed, as stated in the press release.
Six of the 12 individuals were also issued Stop Orders, preventing them from continuing work involving employees due to a lack of workers' compensation insurance. Additionally, two unlicensed individuals requested down payments exceeding legal limits. In California, down payments for home improvement projects cannot exceed $1,000 or 10 percent of the contract price, whichever is less.
"Sting operations like these are crucial to protecting consumers and supporting licensed contractors who comply with consumer protection requirements," said David Fogt, CSLB Registrar. "CSLB will continue to take action against those who operate outside the law, and we encourage consumers to always verify a contractor's license before hiring them."
Consumers are urged to use CSLB’s online tools to verify the license status of contractors they are considering for hire.
Kern County District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer emphasized the importance of these actions, stating, “Unlicensed contractors often bypass regulations designed to guarantee both quality and safety. These proactive measures protect consumers and ensure a level playing field for all businesses in the industry.”
Read full story on Bakersfield Now
Comments