Los Angeles City Attorney Mike FeuerPhoto: LACity.org
Growing interest in drought-tolerant landscapes has some unlicensed contractors taking advantage of California homeowners by performing sub-par work that includes the use of plants that are not drought tolerant.
Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer told Westside Today that area residents should avoid contractors who take only cash, ask for a high down payment, request that the homeowner apply for building permits as an “owner-builder,” or who are not listed with the Contractors State License Board website.
The City Attorney’s office has filed 32 cases alleging unlicensed contractor fraud and is collecting restitution from 39 unlicensed contractors, while another 35 cases referred by the Contractors State License Board are being reviewed.
“Schemes perpetrated by unlicensed contractors can have devastating financial consequences for homeowners,” Feuer said.
“My office will continue to fight back by empowering residents with the information they need to avoid being victimized and aggressively seeking restitution for those who are harmed.”
