Who can legally remodel a kitchen in California?
Cabinets, counters, flooring, tile, paint, fixtures — and depending on the plan, moving the sink, adding circuits, relocating gas, or opening a wall.
Check a specific contractor for this job
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Licensed for this work
A kitchen remodel is several unrelated trades in a residential structure — the B General Building license covers the whole job, including any structural or system changes. (§7057)
Licensed, with a condition
A B-2 covers a kitchen remodel if the layout stays put: cabinets, counters, flooring, tile, paint, and swapping fixtures in their existing locations. If the plan moves the sink or range, adds circuits, relocates gas, or opens a load-bearing wall, that is beyond a B-2. Ask exactly what the scope includes. (§7057.5)
Licensed for part of it — not the whole job
Specialty contractors may perform their own trade on this job as subcontractors. Any specialty not listed is in the same position.
Cabinets, millwork and finish carpentry — a C-6 does that part, not the plumbing, electrical or tile.
Plumbing only.
Electrical only.
Tile only.
Flooring only.
Painting only.
Basis: B&P Code §7057; B&P Code §7057.5; 16 CCR §831. A California contractor may only contract for work within their classification (B&P Code §7059), with an exception for work incidental and supplemental to their own trade (16 CCR §831). This page reads the classification rules; it is not legal advice and says nothing about quality of work. Confirm with CSLB before signing.