The solar industry isn’t just a trend anymore, it’s a cornerstone of California’s clean energy future. As state policies move toward renewable energy mandates and homeowners become increasingly energy-conscious, solar construction is turning into one of the most profitable and fast-growing fields for contractors. But here’s the catch: starting in 2026, new training standards, permit … Read more
When the housing market cools down, many California contractors start to feel anxious. Fewer new builds, tighter client budgets, and longer project pipelines can add pressure to an already competitive industry. But downturns don’t have to mean disaster, especially for licensed contractors who plan strategically. With the right mindset and business adjustments, slower years can … Read more
If you spend any time on job sites, contractor forums, or social media groups, you’ve probably heard plenty of “advice” about what contractors can and can’t do in California. The problem is, much of that advice is plain wrong or dangerously incomplete. Legal myths cost contractors thousands of dollars every year through fines, lost projects, … Read more
Updated and corrected on: October 24, 2025California’s clean energy and construction industries are evolving rapidly, prompting significant updates from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) for 2025. Among the most impactful are the new rules affecting solar and roofing contractors, two trades deeply intertwined in the state’s sustainability movement. For anyone preparing for the California … Read more
Every successful California contractor knows that landing jobs isn’t the hardest part, it’s keeping clients coming back. Repeat customers bring steady work, reliable cash flow, and valuable referrals. But in a competitive field like construction, loyalty doesn’t happen by chance. It’s built through consistent quality, trust, and professionalism. Whether you’re studying for your CSLB exam … Read more
Earning your California contractor’s license is one of the most defining moments in your professional career. It’s more than just a test, it’s a doorway into independence, credibility, and long-term business success. But for many first-time test takers, the experience can feel overwhelming. Between intricate study materials, regulations, and the pressure to succeed, it’s easy … Read more
Contracting in California isn’t just about building structures, it’s about protecting your reputation and staying compliant with the California State License Board (CSLB). For contractors preparing for their license exam, understanding how complaints work isn’t optional; it’s survival. A single unresolved issue can damage your credibility, slow your business growth, or even lead to license … Read more
Workers’ compensation laws are a cornerstone of running a legal, safe, and successful contracting business in California. These rules exist to protect both business owners and their employees, ensuring financial security and care in case of workplace injuries. For small contractors and anyone preparing for the California contractor license exam, understanding workers’ comp requirements is … Read more
Choosing the right trade classification is one of the most important steps in your journey toward becoming a licensed contractor in California. Your classification not only defines the scope of work you can legally perform but also influences your career trajectory, business opportunities, and even your marketing. The California State License Board (CSLB) offers dozens … Read more
The direct payment of PSI exam fees is one of the most significant changes affecting contractors preparing for their California license exam in 2025. Instead of paying examination fees to the CSLB as part of the application process, candidates now handle exam payments straight through PSI, which means faster scheduling, reduced headaches over rescheduling, and … Read more