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How to check a California roofer and complain
Source: California Roofing Help (californiaroofinghelp.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)
Only a registered home improvement salesperson (HIS) may solicit, sell, negotiate or execute home improvement contracts for a licensed contractor away from the contractor's normal place of business. Ask to see the HIS registration pocket card, and check the HIS or contractor license at cslb.ca.gov or by calling 800-321-2752. (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 a roof in California? · When does a California roofer need a C-39 license? · Hiring a roofer after a California wildfire or declared disaster · California roof insurance claim deadlines · California roofing contract and payment rules · How to check a California roofer and complain · Can I reroof my own house in California? · Roofing permit costs in California cities · Cool roof and fire-zone roofing rules in California cities · Where to complain about a California roofer · Cities · FAQ · Sources
Sources
- Contractors State License Board (CSLB): Check a License (checked November 2, 2026)
- Contractors State License Board (CSLB): Who's That Knocking at Your Door? (HIS PDF) (checked November 2, 2026)
- Contractors State License Board (CSLB): Filing a Complaint (checked November 2, 2026)
- California Legislature (California Legislative Information): Business and Professions Code 7091 (complaint time limits) (checked November 2, 2026)
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