Anytime you are thinking about making any changes to your property, it is important that you check if a building permit is necessary before you begin. Many typical home improvements, such as a new roof, room addition, driveway approach, patio covering, pool, heating and air conditioning units, require specific permits. Basically, anytime structural changes are made or the "living area" is altered, a permit is required.

Before you begin construction, contact the City’s Planning Department and provide a drawing of the modification to your property. After the plan is approved, you may obtain any necessary permits. If permits are required, the applications are available at City Hall.  In most cases, separate permits for heating, electrical and plumbing are required.

By going through this approval process, residents can be assured that their plans meet the City’s zoning and safety standards. Having a permit is especially important if you decide to sell your home. Residents who install these types of improvements without a permit may be required to remove the addition before a sale of the home is possible. If you have any questions regarding building permits, visit City Hall or call at (562) 943-0131.

Selecting a licensed and qualified contractor is a critical step in home improvement projects. Taking the proper measures when hiring a contractor will help to protect homeowners beginning improvement projects.

The first step in hiring a contractor is to decide what type of contractor is necessary for the work you want done. There are two types of contractors, general contractors and specialty subcontractors. A general contractor will oversee the project and coordinate the hiring of subcontractors. Specialty contractors are licensed in a specific area, such as roofing. Be leery of any individual that suggests you can save money by being your own general contractor (owner/builder). As the owner/builder you can be held liable for the overall job which can include state and federal taxes, and workers compensation. If you are not experienced in this line of business, it may be wise to use a professional general contractor.

If the project you want to contract for requires more than two types of work it is recommended that you hire a general contractor to oversee the project. As an example, since the extensive remodeling of a bathroom may require plumbing, electrical and tile work, it would be appropriate to hire a general contractor. A general contractor may also contract for specialty work, but they must have the specialty license appropriate for the project.

Take the time to make the calls and thoroughly research a perspective contractor. If you contract with someone who does not hold a license, the State Contractors Board may not be able to assist you if difficulties arise in the process of completing the work contracted. If the prospective project is valued at greater than $500 (including parts and labor) the contractor is required by law to have a license to perform the work. Make sure that the contractor has workers’ compensation and liability insurance coverage. Request a copy of the insurance policy or ask for the name of the provider and verify it yourself. Homeowners may be held liable for any accidents if the contractor does not have the proper coverage.

A couple of phone calls can place you, as the customer, in a much better position when hiring a contractor. After you have seen the contractors pocket license and another form of identification, place a call to the Contractors State License Board (800-321-CSLB) to verify the validity of the license. Be sure to take down the contractors address and business phone number. This information may come in handy if something goes wrong after the last bill has been paid. Upon finding the license and address valid, ask the contractor for a list of local references. Check with these individuals regarding their satisfaction with your potential contractor. Ask about the contractor’s work habits, reliability, flexibility and ability to stay on schedule. After you have spoken with the contractor’s references, call the Better Business Bureau to check if there are any complaints or other relevant information in their file.

Take the time to find a reliable professional contractor to help ensure that the work is completed properly. A good contractor should willingly provide a list of references and have a clean record with the Better Business Bureau. Residents can protect their investment by selecting a licensed contractor with strong referrals and a good track record.

Information about licensed contractors may be obtained by contacting the Contractors' State License Board in your community or at 1020 N Streeet, Sacramento, CA 95814, or the website at www.cslb.ca.gov.

Office Hours

The building department is open Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., and Mondays and Tuesdays from 4 p.m. to 5:30.