Who Actually Repairs Dry Rot?
This trips people up, because rot is usually discovered by a roofer. But replacing rotted structural wood is carpentry, and in California that distinction decides who may hold the contract.
Carpentry is General Building work
California's Business and Professions Code puts framing and carpentry squarely within the General Building classification. A General Building contractor may take a prime contract for framing or carpentry work without limitation.
Cutting Edge General Contracting holds CSLB #1007180, a General Building licence, and performs this work directly. No subcontractor sits between you and the carpentry.
Where roofing comes in
Putting the roof covering back over a repair is roofing, and that portion is installed by a licensed C-39 roofing contractor under subcontract. You get one contract and one point of responsibility.
Check any contractor's licence
- Search the licence number at cslb.ca.gov before you sign anything
- Confirm the classification covers the work being sold, not just that a licence exists
- Check the bond and workers' compensation status while you are there
- Deposits on home improvement contracts are capped at $1,000 or 10%, whichever is less
Common questions
Can a roofing contractor legally repair dry rot?
Roofers routinely replace sheathing as part of a re-roof. Larger structural carpentry sits in the General Building classification. The safe check is the same either way: verify the licence classification at cslb.ca.gov covers what is being sold.
Do I need a permit for dry rot repair?
Cosmetic trim replacement generally does not require one. Structural repair — rafters, trusses, load-bearing members — generally does, and the permit record protects you at resale.