subject: How To Get A California Contractors Bond In 3 Simple Steps [print this page] In the state of California all licensed contractors must file California contractors bonds, which are essentially contracts in which the surety company promises the State of California that the contractor listed on the contractors license bond will not commit any violation of contractor license law in California. Read on to learn how to get a California contractor bond in just three simple steps.
1. Find a California Contractors Bond Website
First things first, you need to find an insurance agency that issues contractors license bonds for the state of California. You want to find one that offers competitive pricing while still being reliable and experienced? Why? Because claims against a surety bond can be filed by any persons damaged by willful and/or deliberate violation of a construction contract. You want a surety company on your side that will dispute the claim. Otherwise if they simply pay the claim you are stuck paying the surety company back. You want a surety company that is experienced disputing claims and won't stick you with the bill.
You also want to find an insurance agency that not only has experience, but also keeps up to date with the latest changes in the industry. Their agents should be frequently attending workshops and professional training seminars in order to guarantee their clients receive the best policy available.
Once you have found a good insurance agency, you should be able to have the bond quoted and issued online without any additional paperwork. Alternatively, if you don't want to apply online, make sure the company is staffed to handle phone, fax, email or in person requests.
2. Answer a Few Simple Questions
To get your bond quote and determine whether you need a license bond or a "bond of qualifying individual" the surety company will ask you a few questions. Simple questions, such as your name, address, phone number, and the type of business you own can usually be answered in less than five minutes. This information can often be supplied by the insurance agency if you provide them with your license or application number.
3. Choose Your Payment Method
That's the last step - easy, right? Simply pick whether you want to pay with a credit card or check - some surety companies even offer payment plans. That's it. Just three easy steps and you're immediately compliant with California's contractor's license requirements.
You can't operate as a licensed contractor in California without a contractor's bond, so there's no time to lose. Don't risk everything you've worked for! Follow these three fast and easy steps and get your contractor's bond today!
