An unlicensed person performs work requiring a license and sues the customer for nonpayment. What is the result?
Explanation
B&P §7031(a) bars a person from bringing or maintaining any action for the collection of compensation for work requiring a license without alleging licensure at all times during performance, and it says so 'regardless of the merits of the cause of action'; §7031(b) goes further and lets the customer recover back what was already paid. (a), (b) and (c) are the equitable compromises the courts have refused — no discounted contract price, no cost recovery, no restitution in quantum meruit. The one narrow escape is the substantial-compliance showing under §7031(e).
Law Reference: B&P Code §7031(a) / §7031(e)This topic, taught in full in the CSLB Law & Business guide. CSLB Law & Business — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $24.99 · 14-day refund →
Practice all 1632 questions free — no signup required.
Own the complete CSLB Law & Business guide — PDF + EPUB, $24.99 →
Related questions on this topic
- A contractor's license expired more than five years ago. What must the former licensee do to be licensed again?
- What is the minimum dollar value of a construction project that triggers the requirement to hold a contractor's license in California?
- The 'minor work' exemption allows unlicensed work only when which condition is also met?
- Under the disgorgement provision of the license law, what may a customer who hired an unlicensed contractor do?
- Acting in the capacity of a contractor without a license, when one is required, is generally what kind of offense for a first violation?
- The CSLB issues a citation to a licensee for a violation. What may that citation include?
Last reviewed: · editorial process