In California, the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) keeps a free public record for every licensed contractor. Checking it takes a few minutes. It is the single most useful thing you can do before you sign a roofing contract.
This page walks through the lookup and explains what each part of the record means. LA Roof Guide is not a contractor and does not vet or endorse anyone. The record is the source; we only explain how to read it.
When a license is required
CSLB Industry Bulletin 24-07 says that from January 1, 2025, the minor work exemption rose from $500 to $1,000. The exemption only applies if the work needs no permit and the unlicensed person hires no workers. If either is true, a license is required even under $1,000.
Most reroofs need a building permit. Our reroof permit basics page covers that. So for a roof replacement, you should expect to be dealing with a licensed contractor.
Step 1: Get the license number
Ask for the license number in writing. CSLB says the license number must appear on all ads, contracts and business cards. If a roofer will not give you one, treat that as a warning sign.
Step 2: Search the CSLB site
Go to the CSLB "Check a License" page at cslb.ca.gov. It offers several ways to search:
- Contractor license number
- Contractor (business) name
- Personnel name, by last and first name
- Home Improvement Salesperson registration number
- Salesperson name
Searching by number is the most exact. A name search can return many similar businesses, so compare the address and license number with what you were given.
You can also call CSLB at 800-321-CSLB (2752).
Step 3: Read the license record
The license detail page has several parts. Here is what to look at.
Status. The record states whether the license is current and active. An expired, suspended or revoked license is a reason to stop.
Business name and address. Check that the name on the record matches the name on the bid and contract. A different name can mean you are dealing with someone who is borrowing a license.
Classifications. Look for C-39, Roofing Contractor. CSLB describes the C-39 trade as installing products and repairing surfaces "that seal, waterproof and weatherproof structures." A B (General Building) contractor may also appear on roofing jobs as part of larger projects. The record lists every class the business holds.
Contractor's bond. CSLB's bond guide says contractors must post a $25,000 surety bond or cashier's check with CSLB to get a license. The record names the surety company. If a contractor breaks license law and you are harmed, the bond is one place you may be able to file a claim. CSLB's guide says you contact the surety company listed on the license record to start a claim.
Workers' compensation. CSLB says C-39 roofing contractors must carry workers' compensation insurance or a valid certification of self-insurance, "whether or not they have employees." This comes from Business and Professions Code section 7125. A roofing contractor should show a workers' comp policy on the record, not an exemption.
Personnel. The record lists the people tied to the license. After the 2025 wildfires, CSLB advised homeowners to check the pocket license and confirm that the person representing the business is listed as personnel on the license.
Disciplinary actions. CSLB's senior guide says the board also provides information about any pending or prior disciplinary actions. Read these closely if they appear.
Step 4: Check the salesperson too
CSLB says any home improvement salesperson who comes to your door must be registered with CSLB. Ask to see the registration card. You can look up the registration number on the same CSLB search page.
Step 5: Match the ID
CSLB's senior guide says to ask to see the contractor's pocket license and a current photo ID, and that the names need to match.
What a clean record does not tell you
A license check is a floor, not a full review. An active license does not mean the work will be good. The bond is a limited fund, not a guarantee of quality. That is why CSLB's consumer guides also recommend getting at least three bids, asking for references, and getting a detailed written contract.
Keep a copy or screenshot of the license record with the date you checked it. Put it in your job file with the contract and payment records.
If something is wrong
If a person is working without a license or the record does not match, you can contact CSLB. CSLB's Disaster Hotline (800-962-1125, weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) is set up for problems after disasters. The main line is 800-321-CSLB (2752).
Related pages
- Back to hiring a roofer
- Roofing contracts and down payments
- How to read a roofing estimate
- Roof insurance claim steps
This page is general information, not legal advice. Rules can change. Confirm current details at cslb.ca.gov.
Sources
- CSLB: Check a License or Home Improvement Salesperson (HIS) Registration
- CSLB: C-39 Roofing Contractor classification
- CSLB: Workers' Compensation Requirements
- CSLB Fast Facts: A Guide to Contractor License Bonds, Your Rights as a Consumer (rev. 8/2025)
- CSLB Industry Bulletin 24-07: License Requirement for Minor Work Increases from $500 to $1,000 (2024-12-31)
- CSLB: What Seniors Should Know Before Hiring a Contractor
- CSLB Press Release 25-01: Hire Licensed Contractors Following Southern California Wildfires (2025-01-17)