How to Choose a Contractor in San Jose (Checklist)

Choosing the wrong contractor is the most expensive mistake in a remodel — worse than picking the wrong tile or overspending on appliances. Here's the checklist we'd give a friend hiring anyone, including us.

California requires a CSLB license for any project over $500 in combined labor and materials. Look the license number up directly at cslb.ca.gov — check that it's active, matches the business name on your contract, and shows workers' compensation coverage. Don't accept a screenshot.

Ask for a certificate of insurance sent directly from the carrier or agent, naming you as certificate holder. You want general liability and workers' compensation. If a contractor says their crew is 'all subs, so no comp needed,' that's your problem if someone gets hurt on your property.

California home-improvement contracts have legal requirements. A compliant contract protects you.

• Down payment is capped at $1,000 or 10% of the contract price, whichever is less.
• A clear scope with specific materials, brands, and allowances — not 'kitchen remodel per discussion.'
• A payment schedule tied to completed milestones, never to calendar dates alone.
• Written change-order process with pricing before work proceeds.
• Three-day right to cancel notice.

Anyone can show pretty photos. Process is what separates contractors.

• Who is on site daily, and who is my single point of contact?
• How do you handle dust containment and daily cleanup?
• What happens if you open a wall and find water damage?
• How many projects will you be running at the same time as mine?
• Can I see a sample line-item estimate and a sample change order?

Walk away from any of these, no matter how good the price looks.

• Large cash deposit requested up front.
• No license number on the contract, business card, or bid.
• Pressure to sign today for a 'this week only' discount.
• A bid far below every other bid with no explanation of what's different.
• Refusal to pull permits, or suggesting you pull them as an owner-builder to save money.

JS Construction is a licensed California general contractor serving San Jose and the Bay Area. Our license and insurance details are on our contact page, and we're happy to have you verify everything above before you sign anything.