What if Your Inspector Does Not Have an Active Contractor License, Nor a Bond?

Some property inspectors do not have an active contractor license. But they don’t necessarily need one. Let’s go over some requirements for state contractor licensing and why a bond may not be necessary:

• An active contractor license is required when a contractor is performing some kind of construction project that involves building a structure or altering/remodeling one.
• A bond is required by the state of California for any active contractor license. A bond is purchased by the contractor and it protects the client or owner when a project is not completed or is not performed according to their contract.

Anyone who is not performing any work on structures (such as constructing a new building or altering an existing structure) does not need an active contractor license. For instance, if they are consulting or inspecting a building, they are not altering the structure so having a bond would serve no purpose. In this case, the contractor could skip the bond and renew his license as inactive.

A contractor without an active license and who is not bonded cannot lawfully perform any alterations, repairs or remodeling. But he can observe, make notes and create a report with his findings. This is why property inspectors often do not have an active contractor license. However, whether the license is active or inactive, his construction experience or knowledge is the same.

If you’d like more information on California contractor licensing laws, you can dive into this 593 page document.