Paperwork Isn’t Fun (We Know!) — But It Protects Homeowners and Keeps Contractors Honest

When you hire a licensed contractor in California, you’re not just paying for the work—you’re also paying for peace of mind. The right paperwork protects you as a homeowner, keeps the project on track, and shows that your contractor is professional and trustworthy.

Here’s what you should expect to receive:

1. A Clear Contract

Every project over $500 requires a written contract.

2. A Fair Deposit and Payment Schedule

By law, your deposit can’t be more than 10% of the total price or $1,000—whichever is less. Any additional payments should be tied to progress on the job, not just a date on the calendar.

3. Written Change Orders

If the project needs extra work—like replacing dry rot or upgrading materials—your contractor should give you a written change order that lists the cost and gets signed by both of you.

4. Important Notices

Expect to see a few standard disclosures, such as:

• A warning about mechanic’s liens (your protection if subcontractors or suppliers aren’t paid).

• Proof of workers’ comp insurance.

• Notices that explain your rights as a homeowner.

5. Receipts for Payments

Every time you make a payment, you should get a written receipt or invoice showing the date, amount, and balance left.

6. Completion and Warranty Paperwork

At the end of the job, you should receive:

• A completion certificate confirming that the work has been finished. In fact, the State of California requires contractors to provide this document.

• Any manufacturer warranties for materials used (like roofing membranes or skylights).

Why This Matters

Paperwork might not be the exciting part of a project, but it protects you and helps prevent surprises later. And like most of us, contractors too can be a bit paperwork-averse—so don’t hesitate to ask for these documents if they’re not offered upfront. However, if a contractor fails to provide the paperwork even after repeated requests, that should be considered a red flag

At Sure Roofing, we make sure our clients get all the right documents at every step. Clear communication and good paperwork are just as important as quality craftsmanship.