Construction Equipment Rental in Santa Maria, CA

About Construction Projects in Santa Maria, CA

When you have a construction job in Santa Maria, California, make sure you know what rules to follow. You need permits, inspections, licenses, and insurance before you build in Santa Maria. Here’s what you need to know.

Building Permits

You need permits before you start a construction project in Santa Maria. The permit process ensures that work gets done right and that building codes are followed. Here are some jobs that require permits:

• Moving or replacing a water heater
• Installing or moving a new wall or forced air furnace
• Replacing an existing window with a new door
• Changing the use of a portion of a house, including patios and garages
• Installing or replacing a wood stove or fireplace
• Adding on to a building
• Remodeling a building
• Installing a fireplace insert
• Installing or replacing a spa
• Installing drywall in a garage
• Building a new building
• Installing new wiring or switches
• Installing ceiling fans or bathroom fans

You do not need a permit for the following kinds of jobs:

• Painting
• Carpeting
• Wallpapering
• Building a shed or accessory building that is 120 square feet or smaller
• Finish work

Building Inspections

Santa Maria, California, requires building inspections. Inspections help keep buildings safe. California also has earthquake building codes to keep people safe in the event of an earthquake. The total value of the project determines what the permit and inspection fees cost. Make sure you follow the rules for inspections so your work is legal. You could be fined or have to redo your project if you miss an inspection.

Contractor Licenses

The state of California requires licenses for contractors doing these kinds of jobs:

• Locks and security systems
• Plaster
• Swimming pools
• HVAC
• Solar
• Electrical
• Masonry
• Paving
• Cabinets and finish carpentry
• Roofing
• Framing
• Glazing
• Concrete work
• Tile work
• Drywall
• Landscaping
• Fire protection
• Asbestos removal
• House moving
• Plumbing
• Fencing
• Paint and wallpaper
• Metal work
• Well drilling

If you’re a licensed contractor with employees, make sure that your workers are licensed. Licensing helps protect consumers since contractors have to meet the state’s requirements to get a license.

Contractor Liability Insurance

Contractors don’t need liability insurance in Santa Maria, California. However, workers’ compensation insurance is required unless the contractor works alone without any employees.

Bonding is required in California. Contractors need to have a $15,000 contractor’s bond or cash deposit on file with the Contractors State License Board. The bond needs to be in place before starting any work.

Construction Equipment Rental in Santa Maria, California

When you’re working on a construction project in Santa Maria, California, you might need aerial equipment. The right equipment can help you get your job done safely. Here is some equipment that you can rent in Santa Maria:

• Forklifts
• Scissor lifts
• Manlifts
• Boom lifts

There are complex rules and regs for construction work in Santa Maria. It’s easier to let an expert handle the permits, inspections, and other steps to get the work done right.