US-CaliforniaWhat recourse do I have if a contractor does shoddy work on my home?
You can demand repairs, withhold payment, sue for damages, or file a complaint with the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). You generally have up to 4 years from substantial completion to sue for breach of contract.
What the Law Says
California law gives homeowners several protections when contractors perform defective or incomplete work. Key statutes define contractor duties, homeowner remedies, and time limits for legal action.
Under California law, contractors must perform work in a 'good and workmanlike manner' and in compliance with applicable building codes. If they fail, you may have claims for breach of contract, negligence, or violation of the Home Improvement Contract law.
The California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) requires licensed contractors to carry a $15,000 license bond (increased to $25,000 as of Jan 1, 2023), which may cover certain losses from unscrupulous or incompetent work. Homeowners may file a claim against this bond if the contractor is unresponsive or insolvent.
For written home improvement contracts over $500, Civil Code § 895 et seq. (the 'Right to Repair Act') applies to new residential construction—but not most remodels or repairs. However, general contract and negligence rules still apply broadly.
Statutory TextEvery contract for home improvement services shall be in writing and shall contain... a description of the work to be performed, the total price, and the date on which the work is to be commenced and completed.
— Bus. & Prof. Code § 7159(a) — Home improvement contracts
Statutory TextNo action to recover damages for breach of contract may be brought more than four years after the cause of action accrued.
— Code Civ. Proc. § 337 — Breach of written contract
Statutory TextNo action for injury to property... founded upon the negligent act or omission of another may be brought more than two years after the cause of action accrued.
— Code Civ. Proc. § 339(1) — Negligence
What Courts Have Said
California courts have clarified homeowner rights when contractors deliver substandard work—emphasizing notice requirements, reasonableness of repairs, and limits on recovery.
Held that homeowners cannot recover purely economic losses (e.g., repair costs without physical damage) under negligence theories—reinforcing reliance on contract claims instead.
Affirmed that a homeowner must give the contractor a reasonable opportunity to repair defects before suing—especially where the contract includes a 'notice and cure' clause.
What to Do
Review your contract and document all defects with photos, dates, and written communications.
Send a written 'notice to cure' demanding correction of defects within a reasonable time (e.g., 10 days).
Withhold final payment if allowed by contract and law—but do not withhold more than the reasonable cost of corrections.
File a complaint with the CSLB online or by phone; pay the $150 fee and request investigation or arbitration.
If unresolved, consult an attorney about filing suit within the applicable deadline: 4 years for breach of contract, 2 years for negligence.
Sources
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US-New YorkNot legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.