17 alleged Fresno-area unlicensed contractors cited in sting

Undercover investigators cited 17 alleged unlicensed contractors during a two-day sting in the Madera Ranchos neighborhood last week.

Acting as homeowners, investigators from the Contractor’s State License Board received quotes from Craigslist contractors for painting, tile work and tree services. The team requested quotes from contractors whose pricing exceeded the $500 legal threshold for unlicensed work.

Contractors were confronted when they arrived at the ranch-style house to turn in bids and cited for alleged violations ranging from unlicensed contracting to requiring excessive down payments. Thirteen of the cited contractors were from Fresno.

Twelve were also cited for alleged illegal advertising for not stating their unlicensed status upfront.

The board’s fraud investigators worked with California Highway Patrol officers and the Madera County District Attorney’s Office to carry out the undercover operation.

This story was originally published May 31, 2016 at 4:07 PM with the headline "17 alleged Fresno-area unlicensed contractors cited in sting."