FAQs Archive - Smith Dollar Attorneys at Law

Q: How fast should an employer respond after receiving a notice?

Promptly. The reforms are built around early action by auditing, documenting, and, when appropriate, curing and pursuing early evaluation. Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not legal advice. Reading this does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your situation, consult an attorney.

Q: Does PAGA apply to construction employers?

Yes. PAGA applies to any private employer for alleged California Labor Code violations, including wage-and-hour and certain safety-related issues.

Q: Can a tenant sign an HIC?

Yes—HIC rules can apply to tenant work at the residence when the agreement is with the tenant, depending on the circumstances. Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not legal advice. Reading this does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Q: When does California require an HIC?

Generally, for home improvement work over $500 in combined labor and materials.

Q: When does §7159 apply?

It applies to qualifying home improvement contracts (often residential improvement work above a statutory threshold), subject to listed exceptions.

Q: Do change orders have to be in writing?

Written change orders are a best practice and often critical in payment disputes because they provide a reliable record of authorization and pricing.

Q: What is the best way to reduce AB 2696 risk?

Use a consistent compliance process: review payroll records, address issues quickly, withhold funds when needed, and collect the final affidavit.

Q: Can a general contractor be liable for a subcontractor’s unpaid wages or benefits?

Yes. A direct contractor may be liable for certain unpaid wages, benefits, and related amounts.

Q: Does AB 2696 apply to every construction project?

No. It applies to certain private California construction contracts, not every project.

Q: What Should I Bring To A Legal Consultation?

You should bring any relevant documents, contracts, correspondence, or records related to your case. Providing complete information allows attorneys to assess your situation accurately and offer informed guidance during your consultation.

(707) 522-1100Click-to-Call!

FAQs

How fast should an employer respond after receiving a notice?

WSI Unibit Analytics2026-05-18T22:41:26-08:00May 18, 2026|

Does PAGA apply to construction employers?

WSI Unibit Analytics2026-05-18T22:41:01-08:00May 18, 2026|

Can a tenant sign an HIC?

WSI Unibit Analytics2026-05-12T01:16:04-08:00May 12, 2026|

When does California require an HIC?

WSI Unibit Analytics2026-05-12T01:15:35-08:00May 12, 2026|

When does §7159 apply?

WSI Unibit Analytics2026-04-30T02:08:14-08:00April 30, 2026|

Do change orders have to be in writing?

WSI Unibit Analytics2026-04-30T02:07:52-08:00April 30, 2026|

What is the best way to reduce AB 2696 risk?

WSI Unibit Analytics2026-04-24T01:01:54-08:00April 24, 2026|

Can a general contractor be liable for a subcontractor’s unpaid wages or benefits?

WSI Unibit Analytics2026-04-24T01:01:38-08:00April 24, 2026|

Does AB 2696 apply to every construction project?

WSI Unibit Analytics2026-04-24T01:01:16-08:00April 24, 2026|

What Should I Bring To A Legal Consultation?

WSI Unibit Analytics2026-04-13T08:10:28-08:00April 13, 2026|

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The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation.

This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

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