CONTRACTOR BONDS

CONTRACTOR BONDS

We help California contractors secure the right bonds, stay compliant with CSLB, and keep projects moving forward. Whether you’re just getting licensed or bidding on your next big job, we make the process fast, clear, and hassle-free.
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WHY BONDS MATTER

What is a Bond, and Why Do You Need One?

A bond is a type of financial guarantee that protects customers, employees, or the public. When a contractor or business is “bonded,” it means a third-party company (called a surety) promises to cover certain losses if the contractor fails to meet their obligations, like not finishing a job properly, breaking the law, or causing financial harm. Unlike insurance that protects the contractor, a bond protects the public. The contractor must pay back the surety if there’s a valid claim.
Bonds

Bonds

Contractor License Bond

Every licensed contractor in California is required by the CSLB (Contractors State License Board) to maintain an active $25,000 Contractor License Bond. This bond protects the public and ensures contractors operate in compliance with state regulations.

When Do You Need It?

New contractors have 90 days after passing the state exam to secure the bond.
The bond must stay active and in good standing to avoid license suspension.

Special First-Time Rate

If you’re a first-time contractor, you may qualify for a discounted bond rate of just $233 for the first year. After the first year, renewal pricing is based on your credit history and any prior claims, but we’ll help you secure the best rate available.

RMO / RME Individual Bonds

If your license is qualified by a Responsible Managing Officer (RMO) or Responsible Managing Employee (RME) who owns less than 10% of the business, the CSLB requires an additional $25,000 individual qualifying bond for that person.
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Bid | Payment | Performance Bonds for Public and Commercial Projects

When bidding or working on larger projects, especially government or public works contracts, contractors are often required to secure one or more surety bonds to protect project owners and ensure job completion.
Bid
Guarantees that your submitted bid is serious and that you have the financial capacity to take on the project. If awarded the contract, the bond ensures you'll enter into the agreement and provide the required performance and payment bonds. If the contractor wins the bid but then refuses or fails to sign the contract or provide the required performance and payment bonds, the project owner can file a claim on the bid bond to recover the difference in cost of hiring the next bidder.
Payment
Ensures that the contractor will pay laborers, subcontractors, and material suppliers as outlined in the contract. This is especially important in public jobs where liens cannot be filed on government property.
Performance
Protects the project owner by guaranteeing that the contractor will complete the job as agreed. If a contractor fails to deliver, the bond provides financial compensation to the owner to cover losses or hire another contractor.

Why They're Challenging to Secure

Unlike license bonds, contract bonds require a deeper financial review. Approval is based on your business’s financial standing, experience, and creditworthiness. That’s where our expertise comes in.

Limited Liability Company (LLC) Bond - $100,000

If you operate your contracting business in California as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), state law requires you to carry a $100,000 LLC Employee/Worker Bond in addition to the standard contractor license bond. This requirement was introduced by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) to ensure employee protection and added financial accountability for LLC-structured businesses.

Who Needs an LLC Bond?

Any contractor licensed as an LLC entity regardless of classification must file this bond with the CSLB. It’s required whether you have employees or not, as long as your business is legally structured as an LLC.

Why Is the Bond So High?

The CSLB set the bond amount at $100,000 to reflect the heightened responsibility and protection needed when operating under an LLC.  The LLC Bond provides financial security for employees, subcontractors, and consumers if the LLC fails to meet obligations such as paying wages or complying with contractor laws.

What Affects the Cost?

The annual premium for this bond starts at $1,500, with actual pricing determined by a combination of:
Personal and business credit history
Classification and License History
Length of time in business
Past bonding or claims history
Well-established businesses with strong credit may qualify for lower rates, while new or higher-risk companies may see slightly higher premiums.
Why Pro-Builders Insurance Agency

How Pro-Builders Insurance Agency Supports California Contractors with Bonds

Proven Expertise

With over 15 years of dedicated service to the contractor community, we understand the licensing and bonding process inside and out.

Competitive Pricing

Our strong relationships with top surety providers allow us to offer some of the most competitive rates in the industry.

Fast, Streamlined Process

Our streamlined online application takes the hassle out of bonding, so you can stay compliant and focus on what you do best.
Get Bonded Today. Start Building Tomorrow.
We make it easy for California contractors to secure the right bond fast, affordable, and fully compliant. Whether you're getting licensed for the first time or taking on a major project, we’ll guide you through every step.