Guides and reports

Plain-language guides for hiring a contractor in California, and reports built from city permit data.

• How to check a contractor license in California
  Step-by-step: look up a California contractor license on the CSLB site, what status, bond, workers' comp and classification mean, and red flags before you hire.
• Hiring a contractor in California: checklist and contract rules
  Before you sign: three written bids, license check, the 10% or $1,000 down-payment limit, the 3-day right to cancel (5 days for seniors 65+), written change orders.
• ADU permits 2025–2026: where backyard homes are being built
  We counted every accessory dwelling unit (ADU, granny flat) building permit in the city permit records we use, from Jan 1, 2025 to Nov 8, 2026. Total: 2,160 permits.