Frequently Asked Questions » Can I Hire a Handyman for Window Replacement in San Diego?
Can I Hire a Handyman for Window Replacement in San Diego?
If you’ve been considering replacing the windows in your San Diego home, you may have considered purchasing replacement windows on your own and then hiring a handyman to install them. Your reasoning for this would likely be to save money, since handymen are often more affordable than contractors, who would presumably be doing the same work.
What many homeowners don’t realize, however, is that the handyman they hire would be working illegally to install their windows. This is because, in the State of California, unlicensed contractors (commonly known as handymen) are only legally allowed to complete jobs under $500. That $500 figure includes the cost of the materials and the handyman’s labor. Any replacement window project is going cost more than $500, which means that the handyman would be completing the job illegally.
Some handymen will attempt to convince homeowners that there are “ways around” the law. For example, they may try to break up a large project into multiple smaller projects that all cost less than $500. Or, they may have the homeowner purchase the materials and then just charge them for their labor. Both of these practices are explicitly prohibited by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). A handyman who works outside of the law is subject to steep fines, as well as jail time if they are caught.
Why Hire a Licensed Contractor for Window Replacement?
Why should you, as a homeowner, care whether a handyman is operating legally or not? After all, you may reason, it is the handyman who is taking the risk by taking on projects that are not legal for them to complete, not you. While this is true, you are also taking certain risks by hiring a handyman to install your windows. If anything goes wrong with your project (the handyman does a poor job in the installation, he damages your home, he takes off with your money before completing the project, etc.), you have very little recourse. You could take them to small claims court but will likely never be able to collect on the judgement. On the other hand, when you hire a licensed contractor, you can file a complaint with the CSLB and go after the contractor’s bond to get some or all of your money back.
A handyman is also not likely to have experience or training specifically in window replacement—at least not to the extent that professional window installers do! Window installation is a specialty skill, and we wouldn’t recommend letting a handyman (or even a general contractor, for that matter) complete this type of project in your home. If done incorrectly, you could have all types of problems, and your window’s warranty will likely be null and void!
Instead of hiring a handyman, what you should look for is a contractor or a company like BM Windows with a C17-Glazing license from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). A licensed C17 contractor has completed all the state’s requirements, which include passing tests, having at least five years of industry experience, and providing proof of being bonded and insured.
How to Find a Licensed Glazing Contractor in San Diego for Window Replacement
Before hiring anyone to install windows in your San Diego home, go to the CSLB website and check their license status. They should have a C17-Glazing license that is “current and active.” They should also have a Contractor’s Bond for at least $25,000 and carry workers’ compensation insurance for any employees. Make sure that the company name and license number on the CSLB website match what is listed on the company’s website and/or business card. (Some people are known for trying to use other people’s licenses as their own. This is illegal.)
Having the proper license should be the bare minimum when it comes to whom you hire to replace your home’s windows. You also want to look for a company with a great reputation for excellent installation, great customer service, and using high-quality products.