TRUST INDICATORS

What Do Our Badges Mean?

We translate CSLB data and verification status into simple, easy-to-understand visual indicators.

CLEAR

Active License — In Good Standing

The CLEAR badge is the most important indicator on a contractor's profile. It means:

  • The contractor holds an active California contractor's license issued by the CSLB
  • The license is current and not expired, suspended, or revoked
  • There are no unresolved complaints or disciplinary actions on record with the CSLB
  • The license classification is appropriate for the trade category displayed

What it means for homeowners: A CLEAR badge gives you confidence that the contractor has met California's licensing requirements and maintains their license in good standing.

What it does NOT mean: CLEAR does not guarantee quality of work, pricing, reliability, or customer satisfaction. It confirms regulatory compliance only.

BONDED

Surety Bond Verified

The BONDED badge indicates that the contractor's surety bond is confirmed active:

  • California requires all licensed contractors to maintain a $25,000 contractor's bond
  • The bond provides financial protection for consumers
  • The bond is issued by a surety company and must remain active for the license to stay valid

What it means for homeowners: A bonded contractor has a financial safety net in place. If they fail to complete work or cause damage, the bond may cover your losses up to $25,000.

INSURED

Workers' Compensation Verified

The INSURED badge means workers' compensation insurance is on file with the CSLB:

  • Contractors with employees are required by law to carry workers' compensation insurance
  • This insurance covers medical expenses and lost wages for workers injured on the job
  • Without workers' comp, you as the homeowner could be liable if a worker is injured on your property
  • Some contractors without employees file a workers' comp exemption — this is legal but means you have less protection

What it means for homeowners: Hiring an insured contractor protects you from personal liability. If a worker is injured on your property, the contractor's insurance covers it.

VERIFIED

Verified Business Owner

The VERIFIED badge means the contractor has claimed their business page and verified their identity:

  • The contractor has confirmed they are the license holder or an authorized representative
  • Verification was completed through email or phone confirmation linked to their CSLB record
  • The contractor has taken an active interest in their online presence and reputation
  • Verified owners can add photos, descriptions, and contact information to their profile

What it means for homeowners: A verified contractor cares about their online reputation and has taken steps to make it easier for you to learn about their business.

NONE

No Active Badge

If a contractor profile shows no badges or displays a warning indicator, it may mean:

  • The license is inactive, expired, suspended, or revoked
  • Bond or insurance information is not currently on file with the CSLB
  • Our data may be temporarily out of sync with CSLB records

Important: Always verify current license status directly with the CSLB at cslb.ca.gov before making hiring decisions.

FOR CONTRACTORS

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