Home improvement contract requirements: subcontractors.

Senator Niello's home improvement contract legislation clarifies contractor accountability and mandates new subcontractor disclosure requirements under California's Contractors State License Law. The bill establishes that prime contractors bear responsibility for completing projects according to contract specifications while maintaining the state's ability to discipline subcontractors and salespersons for violations.

The measure requires home improvement contracts to explicitly indicate whether subcontractors will be used through a checkbox disclosure system. When subcontractors are involved, contracts must include a disclaimer stating that contractor will provide, upon request, a list of subcontractors with their contact information, license numbers, and classifications. This same disclaimer must appear on any subsequent change orders. The disclosure requirements aim to provide consumers with clear documentation of all parties involved in their home improvement projects.

These amendments build upon existing consumer protection provisions in the Business and Professions Code governing contract requirements, payment terms, cancellation rights, and enforcement mechanisms. The Contractors State License Board retains authority to take disciplinary action against contractors, subcontractors, or salespersons who fail to comply with the expanded disclosure mandates or other aspects of the law.