Posing as La Jolla homeowners, Contractors State License Board (CSLB) officials busted 23 people for contracting without a license and various related charges in a sting operation May 25 and 26. Members of CSLB’s Statewide Investigative Fraud Team (SWIFT). invited suspected unlicensed operators to bid on home improvement projects like electrical, tile, painting, landscaping and concrete. Those who bid more than $500 received notices to appear in court for contracting without a license. State law prohibits contracting for home improvement services of more than $500 for materials and labor without a state contractor license. According to the law, those not holding a license may bid to do jobs of less than $500, but their ad must state that they are not licensed. According to the board, two men netted in the La Jolla sting were former licensees with revoked licenses, and one had already been on probation for contracting without a license. “This sting operation sends a loud and clear message that violation of state consumer protection laws will not be tolerated by CSLB or its partnering agencies,” said CSLB registrar Steve Sands. “Homeowners should also note that it is well worth the couple minutes it takes to check CSLB’s website to make sure the contractor is licensed and has workers’ compensation insurance for their employees.” CSLB urges consumers to follow these tips before hiring someone for work: • Hire only licensed contractors and ask to see their license and a photo ID • Always check the license number on CSLB’s website at www.cslb.ca.gov or www.CheckThe- LicenseFirst.com to make sure the license is in good standing. • Don’t pay more than 10 percent or $1,000, whichever is less, as a down payment. There is an exception for about two dozen licensees who carry special bonds to protect consumers. These exceptions are noted on CSLB’s website. • Don’t pay in cash and don’t let payments get ahead of the work. • Get at least three bids, check references and get a written contract.