Home improvement and remodeling projects can be a great way to add value or improve the living space of an existing home. Making the decision to complete a home improvement or remodeling project generally involves a number of steps, including budgeting, specifying designs, researching and selecting materials, and deciding whether to do-it-yourself or hire an architect or contractor.
For those homeowners choosing to do so, hiring a contractor is an important part of a home improvement process, but also one that some may find challenging or time-consuming. With this in mind, we wanted to provide homeowners with a list of resources to help them find reputable contractors.
California Contractor State License Board
The mission of the California Contractor State License Board (CSLB) is to protect consumers by licensing and regulating California’s construction industry. The CSLB provides homeowners with comprehensive information and resources about licensed contractors via its website. Some of the tools available online include checking license status, filing construction complaints, and a checklist for prescreening contractors.
Angie’s List
Another homeowner resource to help find reputable contractors is Angie’s List. A well-known, subscription-based service, Angie’s List helps consumers find highly-rated service providers in their area. Contractors, home improvement specialists, and other types of service providers can be found through the Angie’s List website. Members submit reviews of their experiences; other subscribers can read and consider these reviews when making decisions on service providers for their home, health or business needs.
Better Business Bureau
The Better Business Bureaus’ stated mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. The BBB provides a wealth of consumer and business resources to help find reputable contractors and other businesses right on its website. From finding a BBB Accredited Business, to checking on other businesses and charities, and filing complaints, the BBB provides a comprehensive resource for homeowners interested in checking on businesses from a wide range of industries.
Diamond Certified
Diamond Certified rates and certifies local companies in the San Francisco Bay Area on behalf of consumers. The company’s mission is to define excellence and identify for consumers the highest quality local companies. Diamond Certified companies hail from a wide range of industries, including deck and fence contractors.