Where Do I Begin With a Contractor?

An important step in the process is verifying a contractor has a California-issued license. While City staff regularly verifies "active" contractor licenses prior to issuing a building or excavation permit, anyone can research a contractor's license.

Check California Contractor License

The State of California maintains a list of licensed civil engineer professionals and land surveyors. Depending on the permit, the City may require a California-licensed civil engineer or land surveyor to prepare and stamp plans submitted for review. Anyone can access and search the license status of an engineer or land surveyor.  

Check State-Issued Engineer License

An owner-builder is the owner of a property who acts as the general contractor on the construction site and either does the work themselves or has employees (or licensed subcontractors) work on the project. 

• Resource: Owner-Builders Beware

• Before Hiring a Contractor
• Hiring a roof contractor
• Consumer Guide to Home Improvement Contracts
• Swimming Pool Construction
• Choosing the Right Landscaper
• 10 tips for hiring a contractor or watch this video.

• List and description of the types of contractor licenses issued by the State.

The California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) handles all complaints filed by a customer who has unresolved issues with a licensed contractor.

• Filing a Construction Compliant

No, the City cannot provide advice or recommendations on which contractor, or construction company, to hire for your project.

We encourage you to use resources you trust, such as friends, neighbors, coworkers, family, online sources, or the Mountain View Chamber of Commerce. You can also contact any company whose sign you may see at a construction site where you like the design of the building or quality of work.