12-02-2025
13 cited in Walnut Creek sting targeting unlicensed contractors
(KRON) — Thirteen people were given citations to appear in court during an undercover sting targeting unlicensed contractors in Walnut Creek, according to the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).
The CSLB sting operation was conducted on Jan. 22 and 23, where bids ranging 'from $1,200 for a bathroom remodel to $12,000 for a painting project' were received from individuals, the board said.
California law stipulates that for any construction project valued at more than $1,000, a valid contractor's license is required. 'If the project requires workers or a permit, a contractor's license is required no matter the project cost,' CSLB stated.
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Of the 13 people who were cited in the sting, one also had an outstanding arrest warrant out of Santa Clara County for contracting without a license, according to officials.
Punishment for offering contracting services without a license, CSLB said, includes administrative fines of up to $15,000 and jail sentences of up to six months. 'Repeat offenders face harsher penalties,' the board said, including mandatory jail time and a criminal fine of $5,000 or 20% of the contract price, whichever is greater.
The CSLB sting operation worked in collaboration with the Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office and San Mateo Police Department, according to the board.
'Unlicensed contractors, or contractors who do not carry workers' compensation insurance, put homeowners at risk of financial and safety hazards,' Contra Costa District Attorney Diana Becton said in a news release. 'Our office is committed to holding them accountable and ensuring that consumers are not taken advantage of.'
Contractor licenses can be verified on the Contractors State License Board website.
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