The San Diego construction market is robust — and unfortunately, so is the number of unlicensed operators and fly-by-night contractors looking to capitalize on it. After 15 years in this market, we've seen homeowners make every mistake in the book. This guide will help you avoid them.
Step 1: Verify the License (This is Non-Negotiable)
Every general contractor in California must hold a valid CSLB (Contractors State License Board) license. Verify any contractor at www.cslb.ca.gov before meeting with them.
What to check:
- License is active (not suspended or expired)
- Classification matches your work (B-General Building for most remodels)
- No disciplinary actions in their history
Step 2: Confirm Insurance
Request certificates showing:
- General liability: Minimum $1 million per occurrence
- Workers' compensation: Required if the contractor has any employees
Ask for the certificate to be sent directly from the insurer, not from the contractor — it's trivially easy to forge.
Step 3: Get at Least Three Bids
Bids should be:
- Itemized (not a single lump sum)
- Based on the same scope of work
- Given after an in-person walkthrough
A bid that's significantly lower than the others is almost always a red flag — not a deal.
Step 4: Check References (and Actually Call Them)
Ask for 3 references from projects completed in the last 2 years in San Diego. When you call, ask:
- Did they finish on time?
- Did they stay on budget?
- How did they handle problems when they arose?
- Would you hire them again?
Step 5: Review the Contract
A valid California contractor agreement must include:
- Project description and specifications
- Start and completion dates
- Payment schedule (never pay more than 10% or $1,000 down, whichever is less, per CA law)
- Change order process
- Lien waiver provisions
Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Asks for large upfront cash payment
- Can't provide license number
- No physical business address
- Pushes you to pull your own permits
- Extremely low bid with vague scope
Transform Remodeling Inc is CSLB-licensed (License #1089245), fully insured, and has 500+ completed projects across San Diego County. We welcome every item on this checklist.
