Crackdown on Unlicensed Contractors: 12 Cited in Sting Operation [Los Angeles, CA]

LOS ANGELES, CA (April 3, 2024) — In a concerted effort to protect consumers and uphold industry standards, twelve individuals were cited for bidding on home improvement projects without possessing a valid state contractor’s license. 

This action followed an undercover operation conducted by the District Attorney’s Office on March 20 and 21, highlighting the ongoing issue of unlicensed contracting in the construction sector.

The operation also uncovered potential additional violations, including the advertising of construction services sans the necessary licensure, an act that not only misleads consumers but also undermines the integrity of the competitive landscape in the construction industry.

District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer emphasized the critical nature of enforcing licensing regulations to shield consumers from unethical practices, which often result in inferior work requiring costly fixes. 

This initiative highlights the legal requirement in California that any bid or construction work valued over $500 must be undertaken by a licensed contractor, and that advertising such services without proper credentials is illegal.

Victims of substandard work performed by unlicensed contractors in California, or those suspecting engagement with unlicensed entities, are encouraged to verify a contractor’s license status or report concerns to the Contractors State License Board.