Surety Bonds for Construction Projects & Contractors
Bonds Built for California Contractors
Surety bonds are more than just paperwork—they’re often the key to getting licensed, bidding jobs, or landing your next big project. Calrisk helps contractors across Southern California quickly secure the bonds they need, from state-required license bonds to performance and payment bonds for public and private construction work. Whether you're based in Arcadia or working across multiple counties, our bonding solutions keep your business moving.
What Surety Bonds Are & Why Contractors Need Them
A surety bond is a financial guarantee between three parties:
- Principal – the contractor (you)
- Obligee – the client, project owner, or licensing board
- Surety – the company backing the bond
If a contractor fails to meet their obligations, the surety pays the obligee and may recover those funds from the contractor.
In California, most contractors are required to carry a Contractor’s License Bond to stay in compliance with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Beyond that, many public works jobs—and increasingly, private contracts—require bonds like bid, performance, and payment bonds.
Types of Surety Bonds Contractors Commonly Need
We help construction companies secure every major type of bond required in the field:
01.
Contractor License Bond
Required by the CSLB for all active licensed contractors in California. As of now, the bond amount is $25,000. It protects the public if a contractor violates licensing laws or fails to meet obligations.
02.
Bid Bond
Required during the bidding process on many public projects. Guarantees that if your bid is accepted, you’ll move forward with the job and provide the necessary performance bond.
03.
Performance Bond
Guarantees that you will complete a project according to the contract’s terms and timelines. Often required on government and large-scale private jobs.
04.
Payment Bond
Ensures your subcontractors and material suppliers get paid. These are typically required alongside performance bonds.
05.
Other Bonds
We also assist with maintenance bonds, subdivision bonds, and custom project-specific bonding when needed.
We Make Bonding Fast & Friction-Free
Whether you're a sole proprietor or managing dozens of jobs, Calrisk handles bonding with speed and clarity. We offer:
- Same-day license bonds (in most cases)
- Competitive rates based on your credit, experience, and project type
- Access to top-tier surety companies
- Guidance on which bond you need—and how to get it done quickly
We also help you manage renewals, bundle bonds with your insurance, and improve your bondability as your business grows.
How Bonds Differ from Insurance (And Why You Need Both)
A surety bond protects your client—not you. If a claim is made and paid out by the surety, you’re responsible for repaying it. Insurance, on the other hand, protects you. For example:
- A General Liability policy covers bodily injury and property damage claims made against your business.
- A Bond guarantees performance or payment to your client.
That’s why bonds and insurance go hand in hand—and Calrisk can handle both under one roof.
Don’t forget: Contractors often need General Liability, Workers’ Comp, and a license bond just to activate or maintain a California license. We can help with General Liability, Workers’ Compensation, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surety Bonds
Contact us now to request a bond quote or discuss your specific project requirements.
How fast can I get a surety bond?
License bonds can usually be issued the same day, especially for established contractors. Bid and performance bonds may take 1–3 business days depending on the amount, project, and underwriting requirements.
What does a bond cost?
Bond premiums typically range from 1%–3% of the total bond amount, depending on your credit history, financials, and the type of bond. We’ll help you secure competitive rates and explore credit-based options if needed.
Can I get bonded with bad credit?
Yes, it’s possible. While poor credit can affect your rate, we work with a range of bond providers—including markets that accommodate contractors with credit issues. We can also advise on steps to improve your bondability over time.
Is a bond refundable?
No. A surety bond premium is a fee paid to the bonding company and is not refundable once the bond is issued, even if it's never claimed.
Can I bundle my bond with insurance?
Absolutely. We can include your license bond as part of a package with your business insurance, making renewals easier and often saving you money.
Ready to Get Bonded?
Whether you need a Contractor License Bond today or you're bidding on a complex public project, Calrisk is ready to help.