With enactment of SB 1189 the California Legislature created a new B-2 Residential Remodeling Contractor’s license. The new license is available to contractors working on existing homes with residential wood frame structures requiring at least three (3) unrelated trades or crafts under a single contract.
Beginning June 1, 2021, the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) began accepting applications for the B-2 Residential Remodeling Contractor’s license. According to the CSLB:
The B-2 classification provides a pathway to licensure for many unlicensed people who are currently working on remodeling and small home improvement projects that don’t qualify for a B-General Building License because the contracted work does not include framing or rough carpentry. Consumers employing a licensed contractor have reduced liability and greater consumer protection. Licensees benefit from licensure as they have opportunities to lawfully advertise, and compete on a level playing field for jobs.
To qualify for a B-2 Residential Remodeling Contractor’s license, applicants must have at least four (4) years of experience working in three (3) or more trades or crafts for residential remodeling projects. Applicants can satisfy up to three (3) years of the experience requirement with qualifying education.
The B-2 Residential Remodeling Contractor’s license comes with a few restrictions, B-2 Contractors:
- Are limited to working on existing (not new) residential wood-frame structures;
- Cannot make structural alterations to load-bearing partitions and walls;
- Cannot install or extend electrical or plumbing systems but may make modifications to existing systems (e.g., install recessed lighting or alter plumbing for two shower heads); and
- Cannot install or replace HVAC systems.
Applicants interested in obtaining a Residential Remodeling Contractor’s license must complete a CSLB Application for Original Contractor License, take and pass the B-2 Residential Remodeling Contractor’s examination, furnish a contractor’s license bond, and, if employing employees, obtain and maintain worker’s compensation insurance.
If you are considering obtaining a Class B-2 Contractor’s license to engage in the business of home renovation it is essential to seek qualified legal counsel as obtaining the license is just the first step toward compliance with the Contractor’s license law. Specific laws apply to solicitation of consumers, contents of written contracts with consumers, and limitations on what licensed contractors can charge and when they may receive payment.
The information presented is not intended to be, and does not constitute, “legal advice.” Because each situation varies, and only brief summary information is provided here, you should not use this information as a basis for action unless you have independently verified with your own counsel that it applies to your particular situation.
