By Shauna Krause, President, Capitol Services, Inc.
When it’s time, its time! Just when it looks like all is lost, another contractor gets help finding his way with an expert guide. I also assist contractors on referrals, if you know someone who needs to use their ‘phone a friend’ option…
Q: You helped me get my Company license awhile ago. I remember when we originally spoke and before we got started with the process, you had told me I wouldn’t qualify for the license because I didn’t have the requisite experience, therefore I hired an Responsible Managing Employee (RME). If I remember correctly, it was four years. I received the 2nd renewal for the license recently which reminded me that it’s been four years now! Can I take over the license now? Will I have to take the exams, or will I be able to waive the testing?
A: You are correct, it is four years of experience required to Qualify the license, so it’s that time! You will not qualify for a Waiver of the exams with four years of experience, however if you are willing to wait another year, after five years of being listed as an Officer on the license, you can apply to take over the license and request a Waiver of the exams. Now, like The Clash song, ‘Should I wait, or should I go’ is up to you!
Q: We have a CA Contractor’s License and have several offices here in California, however the business mailing address on our license is a Florida address. Our Contractor’s Bond renewal notification was sent to the Florida address, and the office there was unaware that we have ongoing projects still in California, and I just found out today that instead of renewing it, they cancelled it! Now our license is showing Suspended. How do I get this corrected and what implications may this have on the license status?
A: I looked up your license and the cancellation date of the bond luckily is still within the 90 days to get this corrected. Contact your bonding company to obtain a new Bond and request that they backdate the effective cancellation date. The CSLB will lift the Suspension retroactively to that date so there shouldn’t be any break in the license.
Q: I had a contractor’s license years ago, but I let it go when I went to work for a Company who was already licensed. I want to reactivate my license. What does that require? I’ve tried calling the CSLB, but I’ve gotten a couple of different answers, so my buddy referred me to you.
A: Good call, pleases pass along my appreciation to your friend. I looked up your license and it has been expired for over five years so you will be required to take the exams again to get the license back. You will also need to be fingerprinted and obtain a bond. Since it’s a Sole Owner license, you can request that the number be re-issued to you. We of course would be happy to assist you with the process.
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While knowledge is power, knowing where to go for the answers is half the battle. Get expert assistance immediately when you call 866-443-0657, email info@cutredtape.com, or write us at Capitol Services, Inc., 3609 Bradshaw Rd, Ste H, #343, Sacramento, CA 95827. Search past columns at www.cutredtape.com