Quick answer: Before anything else, verify any California contractor’s license at cslb.ca.gov — the law requires a CSLB license for any project over $500 in combined labor and materials, and skipping this single step is the most common way homeowners end up with an unlicensed, uninsured contractor. APLA Construction (CA Lic #1136359) is happy to have its own license verified before you commit to anything.
Hiring the wrong contractor in Los Angeles is one of the most expensive mistakes a homeowner can make. Unlicensed work, failed inspections, abandoned projects, and predatory contracts are all too common in the LA construction market. This guide gives you a clear, practical framework for vetting and hiring a contractor in Los Angeles — whether you are doing a kitchen remodel, building an ADU, or taking on a full home renovation. APLA Construction (CA Lic #1136359) has been operating in Los Angeles long enough to know exactly what separates good contractors from bad ones.
In California, any contractor doing work worth $1,000 or more in labor and materials, or any work that requires a building permit, must be licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). This is not optional — it is the law.
To verify a contractor’s license:
For general construction work — remodels, ADUs, additions, new construction — you want a Class B General Building Contractor license. APLA Construction’s license number is #1136359 — verify it at cslb.ca.gov anytime.
A licensed contractor must carry two types of insurance. Ask for certificates before signing anything:
Ask for certificates of insurance with your name listed as an additional insured. A legitimate contractor will provide these without hesitation.
Never hire the first contractor you talk to. Get a minimum of three detailed written bids for any project over $10,000. When comparing bids:
California law requires written contracts for all home improvement projects over $500. A proper contract must include:
Ask every contractor for 3 references from projects similar in scope to yours, completed within the last 2 years. Actually call them. Ask:
Also check Google reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Look at how the contractor responds to negative reviews.
In Los Angeles, most significant construction work requires a permit from LADBS or the relevant city building department. A good contractor pulls permits for every job that requires them. Permits protect you because:
If a contractor suggests skipping permits to save time and money, walk away.
A fair payment schedule is tied to project milestones. A typical structure for a mid-size remodel:
Never pay the final payment until you are completely satisfied with the work.
California law limits the initial deposit to $1,000 or 10% of the total contract price, whichever is less. Any contractor demanding a large upfront payment before work begins is either uninformed about the law or operating dishonestly.
Licensed means the contractor has passed the CSLB exam, met experience requirements, and is registered with the state. Bonded refers to a $25,000 surety bond all CSLB licensees must carry, which provides limited consumer protection if a contractor fails to complete a job or causes damages.
Only for very small jobs. Since 1 January 2025, California allows unlicensed work only on jobs under $1,000 total (labor and materials) that do not need a building permit, and a job cannot be split into smaller contracts to stay under the limit (Business and Professions Code § 7048, as amended by AB 2622). Anything else requires a licensed contractor. Hiring unlicensed exposes you to liability and leaves you with no legal recourse through the CSLB.
File a complaint with the CSLB immediately at cslb.ca.gov. The CSLB can revoke licenses, issue fines, and pursue contractors on behalf of consumers. Also consult an attorney if significant funds were paid for undelivered work.
Simple permits can be issued same-day. Kitchen and bathroom remodel permits take 2–6 weeks. ADU permits take 4–10 weeks. Room additions and structural work typically take 6–14 weeks.
Search license number #1136359 at cslb.ca.gov. You will find it active, in good standing, with a Class B General Building Contractor classification.
APLA Construction meets every standard described in this guide:
Call: (818) 818-4419
Email: info@aplaconstruction.com
CA General Contractor License #1136359
Serving all of Greater Los Angeles — San Fernando Valley, Westside, South Bay, Pasadena, and beyond. what to look for in a licensed Los Angeles general contractor