CSLB's Testing division recently implemented a new policy regarding the amount of time applicants are allowed for their examinations. Formerly, applicants were given two-and-one-half hours for each examination, and applicants who needed additional time could request another hour. The new policy gives all applicants three-and-one-half hours for each examination. The new policy is consistent with standard testing guidelines, is fair to all applicants, and will streamline operations in the testing centers by not having to schedule special sessions.

Applicants using translators currently are allowed three-and-one-half hours for completion; this time allotment has not changed.

• Sacramento
• Oakland (scheduled to relocate to Berkeley early in 2013)
• San Jose
• Fresno
• Oxnard
• Norwalk
• San Bernardino
• San Diego

To preserve your rights to file a mechanics lien, make sure you are using the most up-to-date and correct wording on the notices to property owners, construction lenders, and on lien release forms.

The 20-Day Preliminary Notice is now simply called a Preliminary Notice. In addition, the wording of the Notice to Property Owner statement, required as part of the Preliminary Notice, has changed. Subcontractors and suppliers should use the newly worded Notice for private home improvement projects. The Preliminary Notice should be delivered to the homeowner in person or by certified, registered, or express mail, or overnight delivery, with a receipt of the mailing as proof.

The wording contained in the Notice of Mechanics Lien also was changed by Senate Bill 189, which took effect July 1, 2012. Failure to send the properly worded Notice with the lien claim could result in the lien being unenforceable.

The conditional and unconditional lien release forms also have changed. Make sure subcontractors and suppliers sign the new conditional forms as progress payments are owed, and when they are given their final payment and work is completed. Have them sign the new unconditional release forms after they receive progress payments and their final payment.

The new law gives homeowners 15 days instead of 10 to file a Notice of Completion with the County Recorder. Also, instead of the previous 90-day window to record a lien, a prime contractor must record a claim of lien within 90 days after completion of the work of improvement or 60 days after the owner records a notice of completion or cessation, whichever is earlier. Subcontractors must record a claim of lien within 90 days after completion of the work of improvement or 30 days after the owner records a notice of completion or cessation, whichever is earlier.

Mandatory provisions for the state's Green Building Code (CAL Green) became effective July 1, 2012.

The provisions include aspects of plan and design, and weather and materials efficiency and conservation in non-residential buildings. The requirements are highlighted in an update on the Building Standards Commission website.

Updated energy efficiency provisions for the 2013 building standards are going through the rule making process with the California Energy Commission, as well.