How do I check if a California contractor is bonded?
Each contractor profile shows whether a contractor bond is on file in the CSLB record and its amount. California requires active licensees to maintain a $25,000 contractor bond, so a missing bond on an otherwise active license is worth a second look.
Verified against CSLB on · reflects current CSLB rules and California law.
Summary — key takeaways
- California licensees must keep a $25,000 contractor bond on file (B&P Code §7071.6).
- A bond is a limited guarantee, not insurance — it won't cover most property damage.
- Each profile shows whether a bond is on file in the CSLB record.
- A lapsed bond can cause an otherwise active license to be suspended.
- Workers' comp is a separate requirement shown on the same profile.
What a contractor bond is (and isn't)
A contractor bond is a financial guarantee, not insurance — it provides a limited fund (currently $25,000) that can be claimed against for certain violations of the contracting license law. It does not cover general property damage the way liability insurance does.
California's $25,000 bond requirement
California requires active licensees to keep a $25,000 contractor bond on file under Business & Professions Code §7071.6. A suspended status is sometimes caused by a lapsed bond, so a missing or expired bond on an otherwise active-looking license is worth a closer look. Workers' compensation is a separate requirement shown on the same profile.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a California contractor's bond?
$25,000 for most licensees, set by Business & Professions Code §7071.6 (raised from $15,000 effective January 1, 2023). The bond is a limited guarantee, not full insurance.
Does a bond protect me if a contractor does bad work?
Only in limited ways. The bond can be claimed against for specific violations of the licensing law, up to its amount. For broader protection against damage or injury, rely on the contractor's liability and workers' compensation insurance.
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