14 cited for illegal contracting in Santa Clara undercover investigation: CSLB

( KRON ) — The Contractors State License Board conducted an undercover sting operation in Santa Clara, citing over a dozen individuals falsely claiming to be licensed contractors. CSLB said the Campbell investigation, conducted from July 9 to 11, resulted in 14 individuals being cited.

Citations were handed out to false contractors accepting bids over $500. According to state law, bids exceeding $500 require individuals to obtain a contracting license through CSLB.

According to CSLB, these false contractors accepted bids ranging from “$1,400 to $25,000” for jobs including “interior painting, bathroom remodeling, driveway replacement, and artificial turf installation.”

During the investigation, CSLB said six of the 14 individuals also demanded “excessive” down payments before beginning their work. Under state law, contractors cannot charge more than 10% of the project’s entire bid, which the false contractors did not abide by.

Twelve of the 14 individuals are facing additional charges for advertising construction services “without having the necessary license,” CSLB said. According to state law, individuals are required to mention that they do not have a license and cannot accept construction bids higher than $500 without a license, which the false contractors did not do.

CSLB said that engaging in contracting work without a license is a misdemeanor offense that can result in fines of up to $15,000 and jail time.

One of the 14 false contractors cited failed to appear in court for prior grand theft convictions, including illegal contracting. CSLB said this individual could face a second conviction penalty, “resulting in higher fines and confinement of up to 90 days in county jail.”

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