FAQs Archive - Smith Dollar Attorneys at Law

Q: What’s the most common mistake contractors make?

Failing to document service can create problems when trying to enforce lien-related rights later. 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: What happens if I serve the notice late?

You may still preserve rights going forward, but your claim can be limited based on when you served the notice.

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.

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FAQs

What’s the most common mistake contractors make?

WSI Unibit Analytics2026-05-25T03:32:13-08:00May 25, 2026|

What happens if I serve the notice late?

WSI Unibit Analytics2026-05-25T03:31:41-08:00May 25, 2026|

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|

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