How Do I check a contractor's License is current?

Question

Hi I'm looking to higher a painting company for some interior paint work. I have their Lic # but how to I check that it's current and not expired. Also, is there a way I can double check their insurance information also?

I'm out in California.

Zab Khan · Answer

@Swathi Vijayakumar

Cslb.com

John Mocker · Answer

Swathi,

We handle a lot of contractors for their insurance.  I would advise having the contractor have a certificate of insurance issued to you and sent to you by their agent.  Then look up the agency's phone number sepparately and call for verification.

You can also ask for certain other things:

1. they name you as additional insured

2. their company agrees to 30 day notification of cancellation or change

3. their company agress to waive subrogation

4. Their coverage is primary and non-contibutory

They may balk at some of the above because it may involve a cost.  You and your attorney should discuss the contract and what is important and also what type of indemnification clause should be in your contract with the painter

Bo Bond · Answer

Swathi - With regards to insurance, request a copy of their COI (certificate of insurance).  If they have insurance, they'll have this on hand.  Look at the date in the top right of their COI.  It should show a recent date (last few days).  This lets you know when the COI was actually produced.  If the date is over 10 days old, I'd request an updated copy with a more current date.

Once you have a current COI, then just look at the dates tied to their lines of insurance coverage (General Liability, Workers Comp, etc.).  It should have an inception date and an expiration date.  As long as the date you have them work is within those two dates, your good.  If the expiration date has already past, you need something showing active / updated dates.  Example:  11/1/20 - 11/1/21 is expired, but 12/1/20 - 12/1/21 would still be valid for a few more weeks.  Hope this helps.

Bjorn Ahlblad · Answer

@Swathi Vijayakumar CSLB.ca.org That may list current insurance as well. Or ask the contractor for proof. Watch out for "I'm using my cousins neighbors license"! LOL

How Do I check a contractor's License is current?

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