Oregon CCB investigators turn up 12 alleged violations

The Oregon Construction Contractor Board (CCB) found a dozen alleged violations of contracting regulations during unannounced visits to 115 job sites earlier this month. The “sweep” was part of a multistate action targeting the construction industry, coordinated by the National Association of State Contractor Licensing Agencies (NASCLA).

CCB concentrated its investigators at job sites in Eastern Oregon, from Ontario to Boardman. The agency is now sending notices of intent to issue civil penalties to those suspected of violations.

Nearly everyone who repairs, remodels or builds a home needs a CCB license, meaning they are bonded and insured and can pull required building permits. Addionally, the CCB provides mediation services to help iron out disputes that arise between homeowners and licensed contractors. People who use unlicensed contractors don’t have access to the service.

“All Oregonians deserve protection from unlicensed contractors, just as all legitimate contractors deserve to benefit from a level playing field,” said Chris Huntington, CCB Administrator.  “These focused enforcement sweeps highlight our efforts to protect consumers and business throughout Oregon every day.”

To verify licenses:

• Visit www.oregon.gov/ccb.
• Enter the license number or name in the orange “Search” feature.
• Verify that the license is “active,” that the contractor carries the endorsement for residential work, and that the name and other information on the license matches the contractor you are considering.
• Call 503-378-4621 for help searching or understanding the results.

Contractors and consumers can report unlicensed contractors and other illegal activity on the CCB’s website or by calling 503-934-2246.

In looking for contractors, the CCB advises consumers to get references from friends and neighbors, or others in the construction industry, such as supply stores. Contractors seeking work through online lists must include their CCB number in all advertising. However, the CCB advises consumers against relying on online references alone.

The CCB has a variety of consumer tools on its website, including the downloadable guide, Selecting and Working With A Contractor. View details of the recent national operation here.

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