DA Charges Unlicensed Contractors, Warns Los Angeles County Burn Zones
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has filed charges against five individuals for acting as unlicensed contractors in the Eaton Fire burn zone. The announcement was made by District Attorney Nathan Hochman and Supervisor Kathryn Barger, who addressed the issue on-site in Altadena.
Risks of Hiring Unlicensed Contractors
The officials emphasized the significant risks associated with hiring unlicensed contractors. These risks include:
- Paying large upfront fees.
- Liability issues for property owners if the contractor is uninsured.
- Difficulty recovering losses if the work performed does not meet code standards.
In response, Barger noted that Los Angeles County is compiling a list of licensed contractors for residents affected by the Eaton Fire to help guide their decisions.
Legal Action Against Unlicensed Contractors
The individuals charged are facing felony allegations under California state law pertaining to unlicensed contracting activities in areas impacted by natural disasters. According to Hochman, these individuals were apprehended during an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Investigations.
Three of the accused have pleaded not guilty, while two others are slated for arraignment in January. The district attorney’s office encourages the public to report suspected contractor fraud.
Understanding Unlicensed Contracting Laws
In California, certain conditions render unlicensed contracting illegal. These include:
- When a building permit is required.
- When the total cost of labor and materials exceeds $1,000.
For residents seeking to verify a contractor’s licensing status, they can visit cslb.ca.gov.
