So, you're thinking about getting some stucco work done on your place here in Glendale. Maybe it's just a patch-up job, or maybe you're looking for a whole new look. Whatever the project, you want it done right, obviously, and nobody wants to get ripped off. I've been in this business for a quarter-century, seen plenty of fantastic work and, let's be honest, some real duds. Here's the advice I'd give my own next-door neighbor on how to find a genuinely good stucco contractor.
Questions You Absolutely Must Ask Every Stucco Contractor
Don't hold back. This is your home, your money we're talking about. You've got to hit them with the tough questions right from the start. Trust me, it saves everyone a massive headache down the road.
Can I see your C-35 license? This isn't optional. If they don't have it, or if it's expired, just walk away. That's the specific California contractor's license for plastering and lathing, you know. You can always double-check it on the CSLB website, too.
Are you insured? Specifically, do you carry liability and workers' comp? If someone gets hurt on your property and they're not covered, guess who's left holding the bag? That'd be you. Don't just take their word for it; ask them to send you a certificate of insurance directly from their provider.
How long have you been doing stucco work right here in Glendale? Experience really counts. Someone who's been around for a while understands our local climate, the common problems with older homes in spots like Adams Hill, and what really holds up best around here.
Can you give me three recent references? And then, actually call them. Ask about their experience, if the job wrapped up on time and on budget, and if they'd hire that contractor again.
What kind of warranty do you offer on the work? A good contractor stands behind what they do. Make sure you get that in writing.
Who will actually be doing the work? Your own crew or subcontractors? It's not necessarily a deal-breaker if they use subs, but you need to know, and you need to make sure those subs are also licensed and insured.
What to Look For When You Get a Quote
A quote isn't just a random number. It should be a detailed breakdown, showing you exactly what you're paying for. If it's just one line item, well, that's a problem.
A Detailed Scope of Work: It needs to clearly spell out everything that's included. Surface prep, the type of lath, how many stucco coats (scratch, brown, finish), what kind of finish coat (acrylic, traditional cement, etc.), specific materials, and even cleanup. Don't settle for anything vague.
Material Specifications: What brand of stucco are they planning to use? What kind of lath? Are they putting in proper weep screeds and flashing, especially around your windows and doors? This stuff is super important for keeping water out, which, let's face it, is a big deal when we get those occasional heavy rains.
Payment Schedule: A legitimate contractor won't ask for half or more of the money upfront. In California, for home improvement projects, your down payment can't be more than 10% of the total contract price or $1,000, whichever amount is less. Any other payments should be tied to specific stages of completed work.
Permits: Does the quote mention who's responsible for pulling the permits? For any significant stucco work, you'll definitely need one from the City of Glendale. Don't let a contractor tell you it's not necessary if it clearly is.
Cleanup and Debris Removal: Make sure it explicitly says they'll clean up the site and haul away all the construction debris.
Red Flags You Should Watch Out For
Some things should just make you hit the brakes immediately.
Unsolicited Door-to-Door Offers: Especially after a storm. These guys are often just fly-by-night operations, believe me.
Cash-Only Deals: A contractor who insists on cash is probably trying to dodge taxes, and that puts a huge liability on you.
Pressure to Sign Immediately: "This price is only good today!" No reputable business operates like that. Take your time, get a few quotes.
No Contract or a Very Basic One: Everything needs to be in writing. A handshake just isn't enough when thousands of dollars are on the line.
Missing License or Insurance: We already talked about this, but it's the biggest red flag out there.
Asking You to Pull Permits: This is a huge no-no. The contractor should pull the permits. If you pull it, you become the general contractor, and all the liability shifts straight to you.
How to Verify They're Legitimate
It's actually easier than you'd think to check up on someone.
Check the CSLB Website: Head over to cslb.ca.gov. You can look up their license number there and see if it's active, if they've had any disciplinary actions, and if their workers' comp insurance is current. My company, Glendale Stucco & Plastering, always keeps everything up-to-date.
Online Reviews: Sites like Yelp, Google, and Angie's List can give you a pretty good sense of their reputation. Look for consistent patterns, not just one or two bad reviews.
Better Business Bureau (BBB): Check their rating and see if there are any unresolved complaints. It's a good indicator.
Ask for Proof of Insurance: Like I said before, don't just take their word for it. Ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) directly from their insurance carrier. It should list you as an additional insured for the project, which is exactly what you want.
Hiring a stucco contractor shouldn't feel like you're playing the lottery. Do your homework, ask the right questions, and, most importantly, trust your gut. You'll find someone reliable who'll do a great job on your Glendale home.