A contractor who damages your home during a project is liable under California negligence law. Multiple recovery paths exist depending on the contractor's insurance status.
Before any cleanup or temporary repairs, document the damage with extensive photographs and video. Date-stamp every image. Preserve the damaged materials rather than discarding them — they may be needed as evidence. Get independent contractor estimates for the repair cost before agreeing to any repairs the original contractor offers to make.
Only allow the contractor to make repairs after: documenting the damage thoroughly, getting an independent estimate, and getting the contractor's repair commitment in writing including a deadline. If repairs are inadequate, having independent documentation of the original damage is critical.
Licensed contractors in California are required to carry general liability insurance. Property damage they cause is typically covered by this insurance. Ask for their insurance carrier name and policy number and file a claim directly. If the contractor refuses to provide insurance information, this is a CSLB violation.
The contractor's $25,000 surety bond provides an additional recovery avenue. See our complete bond claim guide.
If insurance and bond recovery are insufficient, a civil lawsuit for negligence allows recovery of the full cost of repair plus consequential damages including temporary housing, loss of use, and personal property damage.
Bay Legal PC handles construction disputes throughout California. Tell us about your situation and we'll be in touch promptly.
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