Septic Tank pumping companies do not have to hold a contractors license if they ONLY pump your tank. However, if ANY company, especially a septic tank pumping company performs any repairs, replacements or installations on your septic tank, septic system, leach lines or any plumbing type of work they MUST hold a valid Contractor's License.
This protects the homeowners in unforseable circumstances as the CSLB will help your process of recovery against faulty or incomplete workmanship.
Also, homeowners are reassured that a company holding specialized Contractors Licenses are certified that they are completely knowledgable in that particular area of services; you will have comfort knowing the problem was properly diagnosed, workmanship was performed according to standards and the peace of mind that you hired a true professional.
A contractor who holds valid licenses, insurances and bonds will never be hesitant to share with the customer. However, if you ever have a question if the company you want to hire is legitimate, a simple click to the CSLB website will give you the answers: http://www.cslb.ca.gov/OnlineServices/CheckLicenseII/CheckLicense.aspx
Honorable companies will hold either a general license, a plumbing license (C36) or a license for sanitation systems (C42) when working on septic systems.
