M A Leithem Construction
Services
Services estimated based on license classification. Claimed businesses can customize their service list.
About the B — General Building License
A General Building (Class B) license is one of the most common contractor licenses in California. It authorizes the holder to construct, alter, or repair buildings and structures. This includes residential homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities. A Class B contractor can use two or more unrelated building trades on a single project, making them ideal for comprehensive construction and renovation work. They often serve as the primary contractor who coordinates subcontractors for specialized trades. When hiring a General Building contractor, homeowners should verify the license is active and in CLEAR status, confirm adequate insurance coverage, and always get a detailed written contract before work begins. General Building contractors must maintain a $25,000 contractor bond and carry workers' compensation insurance if they have employees.
About the C-5 — Framing & Rough Carpentry License
The C-5 Framing and Rough Carpentry license covers the structural skeleton of buildings — the framework that everything else is built upon. C-5 contractors install wood and metal framing, roof trusses, sheathing, subflooring, and other structural components. This is one of the most physically demanding and technically important trades in construction, as the quality of framing directly affects a building's structural integrity and safety. In earthquake-prone California, proper framing techniques and seismic considerations are especially critical. C-5 contractors must understand load calculations, building codes, and engineering specifications. When hiring a framing contractor, look for experience with your project type, verify they follow current seismic codes, and ensure they coordinate well with other trades that will follow their work.
About the C-8 — Concrete License
The C-8 Concrete license authorizes contractors to mix, pour, and finish concrete for a wide range of residential and commercial applications. This includes foundations, driveways, patios, sidewalks, retaining walls, and decorative concrete work like stamping and staining. Concrete is one of the most versatile and durable building materials, and proper installation requires significant skill and experience. Factors like mix design, reinforcement, curing conditions, and finishing techniques all affect the final product's strength and appearance. California's seismic requirements add another layer of complexity, particularly for foundation work. When hiring a C-8 contractor, ask about their experience with your specific project type, the concrete mix they recommend, and how they handle weather-related scheduling challenges.
About the C-9 — Drywall License
The C-9 Drywall license covers the installation, taping, texturing, and finishing of drywall (also known as sheetrock or gypsum board). Drywall is the standard interior wall and ceiling surface in modern construction, and the quality of its installation directly affects the appearance of a finished room. C-9 contractors handle everything from hanging sheets to applying final textures and finishes. Different projects require different finish levels, from basic garage walls (Level 1-2) to smooth, paint-ready surfaces (Level 4-5). Specialty applications include moisture-resistant board for bathrooms, fire-rated assemblies, and soundproof installations. When hiring a C-9 contractor, specify the finish level you expect, discuss texture options, and ask about their process for minimizing dust. Quality drywall work is essential for a professional-looking final result.
💡 Tips for Hiring a General Building Contractor
- Always get at least three written estimates before choosing a contractor
- Verify the contractor pulls all required building permits
- Ask about their warranty policy for completed work
- Confirm they carry general liability insurance
- Never pay more than 10% or $1,000 down (whichever is less) per California law
✅ Verify This License
Always verify contractor licensing directly with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) before hiring. You can look up license #1016170 to confirm it is active and check for any complaints or disciplinary actions.
Check on CSLB.ca.gov →🏢 Are you M A Leithem Construction?
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Claim This Page →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Class A and Class B contractor license?
A Class A (General Engineering) license covers infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, and utilities. A Class B (General Building) license covers building construction, remodeling, and structural work on homes and commercial properties.
Can a Class B contractor do electrical or plumbing work?
A Class B contractor can coordinate subcontractors for specialty trades like electrical and plumbing. However, the actual electrical or plumbing work must be performed by appropriately licensed C-10 or C-36 subcontractors unless the B contractor also holds those specialty licenses.
What does a C-5 Framing license cover?
A C-5 license covers the installation of structural framing including wood and metal studs, floor and roof systems, trusses, sheathing, and subflooring. It covers the structural skeleton of buildings but not finish carpentry.
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