When you’re dealing with a garage door issue or planning to install a new one, it’s common for homeowners to choose the first repair company they find, especially in urgent and emergency situations. However, this kind of rushed decision can often lead to unnecessary expenses, frustration, and major headaches.

These stories are not rare. For example, in a report from TMJ4, homeowners were scammed by garage door repairmen who charged double the industry standard for a spring repair service and delivered subpar work. In another case, covered by NBC CT, a Connecticut resident paid thousands to a fake garage door repair company.

One of the best ways to protect yourself as a homeowner or property manager is by hiring a bonded garage door contractor. But what exactly does that mean and why is it important?

What Is a Contractor’s Bond?

A contractor’s bond is a form of protection for consumers. It is a legal agreement where a third party (usually a surety company) guarantees compensation to the consumer if the garage door contractor fails to meet their obligations. The bond serves three main purposes:

• Protect Consumers from Financial Loss: If a garage door repair company doesn’t complete a project, performs substandard work, or violates licensing laws, a claim can be made against the bond to recover damages.
• Enforce Accountability: The bond incentivizes garage door contractors to follow state laws, adhere to industry standards, and complete garage door repair and installation projects agreed upon in the contract.
• Offer Legal Recourse: In the event of a dispute or problem, consumers have a means of obtaining restitution without having to immediately pursue civil litigation.

Why You Should Always Hire a Bonded Garage Door Repair Company

1. Consumer Protection

A bonded door company provides a financial safety net. In California, for example, licensed contractors must have a bond of at least $25,000. This means that if the contractor violates a licensing law or doesn’t fulfill their contractual duties, you have a way to be compensated.

2. Legal Compliance

California state law requires all licensed garage door companies to be bonded. If a contractor is not bonded, they are likely to operate outside the law, a major red flag. Bonding is also a requirement for obtaining and renewing a contractor’s license, which indicates legitimacy and compliance.

3. Professional Credibility

Being bonded is a sign of professionalism. It shows the contractor is responsible, has met legal and financial standards, and is backed by a surety company that has vetted their reliability and business practices.

4. Peace of Mind

Working with a bonded garage door company gives you the peace of mind to know that, if something goes wrong, there’s a system in place to resolve it. This is especially important for large or expensive projects where the risk of loss is higher.

How to Confirm a Garage Door Company Is Bonded

If you’re in need of garage door repair or replacement, you can use the CSLB website to confirm that the contractor you intend to hire is licensed and bonded in California? Here’s how to do it step by step:

Step 1: Visit the CSLB Website

Go to the official California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) website: https://www.cslb.ca.gov

Step 2: Click on “Check a License”

On the homepage, locate and click the “Check a License” or “License Check” button.

Step 3: Enter the Contractor’s Information

You can search by business name, license number, or personal name.

Step 4: Review the Contractor’s License Details

Once you find the contractor, review the following information:

License Status – Make sure it says “Active.”

Bonding Information – Look for a section labeled “Bonding” or “Contractor’s Bond.” It should show:

• The bond amount (e.g., $25,000)
• The surety company’s name
• The effective dates of the bond
• Whether the bond is active

Step 5: Cross-Verify and Confirm

Make sure:

• The name and phone number of the contractor matches the one you are planning to hire.
• The bond is current and has not lapsed.
• There are no disciplinary actions or legal disputes associated with the license.

Pro Tip: While on the CSLB site, check for any pending complaints, legal actions, or citations under the “Legal Action” section of the license profile.

Red Flags to Watch For

Even if a company looks professional, it’s important to do your due diligence. Here are some warning signs that may indicate a contractor is not properly licensed, bonded, or operating legally. If you notice any of these red flags, it’s best to move on and find a more reputable option.

• The garage door company refuses to provide their license number: A legitimate contractor will always be transparent about their licensing. If they hesitate, deflect, or give excuses, they may not be licensed, or may be operating illegally.
• You can’t find them on the CSLB website: Every licensed garage door repair company in California must be listed with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). If your search comes up empty, the company may be unlicensed or using a fraudulent identity.
• The license is listed as Expired, Inactive, or Revoked: A contractor may still show up in the CSLB system but with a suspended or expired license. This means they are not legally permitted to take on new projects and are not bonded or insured as required by law.
• The bond shows as Cancelled or Suspended: A current and active contractor’s bond is essential for your protection. If the bond has been canceled or suspended, you won’t have financial recourse if something goes wrong with your garage door installation or repair.
• The contractor offers you a significantly discounted price for paying in cash, without a contract: This is a classic tactic used to avoid accountability. While a cash deal might sound attractive, it often comes with no written agreement, no receipts, and no legal protection if the job is done poorly or not at all. A bonded and licensed contractor will always provide a contract and invoice, no matter how small the job.

A garage door company’s bond isn’t just a formality; it’s your first line of defense as a consumer. Whether you’re repairing your excising garage door or replacing it, ensuring that the company is licensed and bonded gives you peace of mind and legal protection.

The California Contractors State License Board makes it easy to check these details in just minutes online. Before signing any agreement, take the time to confirm the contractor’s bond through the CSLB. It’s a small step that can save you thousands of dollars and countless headaches.