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How to check a California contractor and complain

Source: California HVAC Help (californiahvachelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 2, 2026.

Check any contractor's license number on CSLB's Check a License page. A California license number has no letters and is up to 8 digits. CSLB: 800-321-CSLB (2752). (source: Contractors State License Board)

CSLB handles violations of contractor license law, licensed or unlicensed, for up to four years from the date of the act. A CSLB investigation does not guarantee restitution; to recover money you may need to go to court. CSLB also takes Building Permit Violation Referrals for contractors who fail to pull a permit. (source: Contractors State License Board)

Complaint deadlines depend on the kind of problem (B&P 7091). A complaint about a problem you could see on reasonable inspection must be filed within four years of the act, which is the four years on CSLB's complaint page. A complaint about latent structural defects, meaning defects not apparent by reasonable inspection, may be filed within 10 years. If your problem is older than four years, call CSLB at 800-321-2752 and ask whether it qualifies. (source: Contractors State License Board) (source: California Legislature)

On this site: Do I need a permit to replace an AC or furnace in California? · California energy code testing for AC changeouts · Mini-split permits in California · HVAC permit costs in California cities · HVAC work that needs no permit in California cities · Can I do my own HVAC work in California? · When does a California contractor need a license? · California home improvement contract and payment rules · How to check a California contractor and complain · Cities · FAQ · Sources

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