B · Building & structure

General Building Contractor

108223 contractors hold a California B General Building Contractor license

What Does a B License Cover?

Authorizes construction of structures including residential, commercial, and industrial buildings requiring at least two unrelated building trades or crafts. May take prime contracts or subcontracts for framing or carpentry. May subcontract all specialty work but must hold the appropriate C license to self-perform specialty trade work.

Does not cover

Cannot self-perform specialty trade work (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc.) without holding the corresponding C license. Cannot contract for C-16 Fire Protection or C-57 Well Drilling without the appropriate license or subcontractor.

Hiring tip

General building contractors coordinate multiple trades on a project. Verify they will pull all required building permits and that their workers' compensation insurance is current. California law requires a written contract for any home improvement project over $500. Get at least three written estimates before committing.

A California contractor license is generally required when a project costs $1,000 or more in combined labor and materials, requires a building permit, or uses additional workers. Small jobs cannot be split from a larger project to qualify for the exemption. Read the CSLB requirements.

Also in Building & structure

A: General Engineering Contractor B-2: Residential Remodeling Contractor C-5: Framing and Rough Carpentry Contractor C-6: Cabinet, Millwork and Finish Carpentry Contractor C-9: Drywall Contractor C-35: Lathing and Plastering Contractor

Related Classifications

A: General Engineering Contractor B-2: Residential Remodeling Contractor

Licensing Resources

Deposit and payment rules for California contracts
Home improvement contract requirements
How to verify a contractor license

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