Understanding 7109(a) and 7109(b) Workmanship Violations in California's Construction Industry

When you're diving into home improvement projects or construction work in California, it's critical to understand the state's contractor licensing laws. California's Contractors State License Law includes specific statutes that define workmanship violations and their consequences. Two key sections to consider are 7109(a) and 7109(b). In this article, we'll explain the difference between these two types of workmanship violations and how they can impact homeowners and contractors alike.

What is a Workmanship Violation?

In California, contractors must maintain a standard of quality in their work. Workmanship violations occur when a contractor fails to meet these standards, resulting in poor, substandard, or faulty work. This can lead to safety issues, structural problems, or other significant defects in a construction project.

7109(a) - Departure from Accepted Trade Standards

Section 7109(a) of the California Contractors State License Law focuses on a contractor's "departure from accepted trade standards." This type of violation occurs when a contractor's work significantly deviates from established industry practices, leading to noticeable defects or safety concerns. A few examples of situations that might lead to a 7109(a) violation include:

• Shoddy Workmanship: Visible signs of poor craftsmanship, like uneven tiling, misaligned structures, or inadequate installations.
• Safety Violations: Work that creates hazards, such as improper electrical wiring or unstable foundations.
• Failure to Follow Building Codes: If a contractor's work doesn't meet local or state building codes, it might be considered a violation under this section.

7109(b) - Failure to Complete Work with Due Diligence

Section 7109(b) deals with contractors who "fail to complete a construction project with due diligence." This type of violation occurs when a contractor doesn't complete the work within a reasonable timeframe or abandons a project. A few scenarios that might lead to a 7109(b) violation include:

• Abandonment of a Project: If a contractor starts work but then leaves without completing the job, this is a clear violation of 7109(b).
• Unreasonable Delays: Excessive delays without valid reasons, causing significant inconvenience or financial loss to the homeowner.
• Lack of Progress: If a project remains stagnant without substantial progress for an extended period, this could be grounds for a violation.

Consequences for Contractors and Homeowners

Contractors found guilty of 7109(a) or 7109(b) violations can face various penalties, including fines, license suspension, or revocation. From a homeowner's perspective, these violations can result in significant financial losses, additional repair costs, and potential safety hazards. If a contractor has a history of these violations, it’s a red flag that suggests a lack of professionalism or accountability.

Protecting Yourself as a Homeowner

As a homeowner in California, it's essential to take steps to protect yourself from contractors who may commit workmanship violations. Here are a few key tips:

• Check Contractor Licensing: Ensure the contractor has a valid California contractor's license and a clean record without significant violations.
• Get Everything in Writing: Have a detailed contract that outlines the scope of work, timeline, payment terms, and expectations for quality.
• Research Contractor Reputation: Look for reviews, testimonials, or references that reflect the contractor's reliability and workmanship quality.
• Inspect the Work: Regularly inspect the construction progress to catch any issues early and ensure that the contractor is adhering to accepted trade standards.

By understanding the difference between 7109(a) and 7109(b) workmanship violations, you can better safeguard your home improvement projects and avoid costly or dangerous outcomes. If you have concerns about a contractor's work, don't hesitate to contact the California Contractors State License Board for guidance and support.  

Don't let your dream project turn into a workmanship nightmare. Contact Salenro today, and let's build your dream home the right way.