How to choose a water damage restoration company and check a CSLB license
Before you hire a water damage restoration company, look it up on the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) site, confirm the license is active, and ask for proof of insurance. California generally requires a contractor license for projects of $1,000 or more in labor and materials, and a down payment cannot exceed 10 percent of the contract or $1,000, whichever is less. A valid CSLB license is the starting point, not the whole answer: a restoration company should also explain its scope and standards.
Check the license
CSLB’s online license lookup lets you search by license number, business name or individual name, and shows status, classifications, bond and workers’ compensation information and complaint disclosure. California contractors’ license numbers contain digits only. Check the name on the license matches the company you are hiring. A CSLB license is generally required for projects needing a permit, using employees, or totaling $1,000 or more in labor and materials; jobs cannot be split to avoid the threshold.
Understand bond and insurance
Licensed contractors must carry a $25,000 contractor bond, which CSLB notes may not cover multiple complaints or large projects. If a contractor has employees, California requires workers’ compensation insurance; CSLB advises asking for a certificate of insurance, because you may be financially liable if an uninsured worker is hurt on your property.
Be careful with payment
CSLB says that a contractor cannot ask for a down payment of more than 10 percent of the contract price or $1,000, whichever is less, with a narrow exception for contractors holding a blanket performance and payment bond. Be cautious of anyone demanding large upfront payment.
Ask about standards and scope
The ANSI/IICRC S500 standard is the industry standard for professional water damage restoration. Ask whether the company follows it and whether technicians hold IICRC training, and ask for documentation. Request a written scope showing what will be extracted, removed, dried and monitored, and how progress will be documented.
Ask about insurance claims
A good company explains that your insurer decides coverage and provides documentation. Be wary of anyone who guarantees that a claim will be paid. See insurance claims help.
Our license details
Our CSLB license number is shown in the site footer once the owner has confirmed it. Check it yourself at CSLB’s lookup.
Related guides: whether homeowners insurance covers burst pipes in California and what to do in the first 24 hours after water damage. Learn more about us and our water damage restoration process.
Quick answers: water damage restoration company
Is a restoration company the same as a contractor?
It depends on the work. If the company is performing construction or repair work, CSLB license rules apply. Ask how it is licensed for the work it proposes.
Can I check complaints?
Yes; the CSLB lookup includes complaint disclosure.
Should I sign an assignment of benefits?
Read any document carefully and ask your insurer before signing. We do not recommend signing under pressure.