New Requirement for Landscape Contractors

SACRAMENTO, CA

According to California state law, all licensed contractors engaged in home improvement work will be required, beginning January 1, 1999, to take an open-book examination and be certified to continue this type of work. Contractors will have until July 1, 2000 to obtain the certification.

Contractor's License Law defines "home improvement" as: "The repairing, remodeling, altering, converting, or modernizing of, or adding to, residential property, and shall include, but not be limited to the construction, erection, replacement, or improvement of driveways, swimming pools (including spas and hot tubs), terraces, patio awnings, storm windows, landscaping, fences, porches, garages... and other improvements of the structures of land which is adjacent to a dwelling house."

A study guide, application and examination are being developed now. Information will be distributed to contractors before January 1, 1999. No fee will be charged for Home Improvement Certification. This certification is intended to be a useful and educational tool for licensed contractors, and should not be considered an additional license classification.