Did You Chose the Right Contractor?
What Type of Contractor For An Environmental Cleanup?
In the state of California, there is only one type of contractor
who is qualified by definition to perform an environmental cleanup. This is an
"A" general (Engineering Contractor) with a HAZ certificate. The "A"
general entitles the contractor to perform all of the underground and above-ground work
essential to constructing a proper cleanup system and the HAZ rider entitles the
contractor to handle the waste generated during the cleanup.
The "A" contractor has to take both the
contractor’s law test (4 hours in the morning) and the Engineering Contractor’s
test (4 hours in the afternoon) in order to be licensed. He or she must pass both sections
of this test to practice. The HAZ certification is a four-hour exam administered in the
afternoon session of the contractor’s exam sessions administered monthly in most
locations.
Are Other Types of Contractors Eligible To Perform Cleanups
A review of contractor law indicates that other specialties may
perform certain aspects of an environmental cleanup, but can only handle waste if they
have a HAZ rider. The HAZ rider is only available to an "A" contractor. Also, it
bears mentioning that there are only two classifications of general contractors
"A" and "B". The "A" contractor builds engineered structures
such as bridges, highways and dams, where the "B" contractor builds simple
structures, such as homes. By, definition, a general contractor is one who organizes and
utilizes three or more trades in the performance of his/her contract. Specialty
contractors are not licensed to do this, but to only work within their specialty.
The simple answer to the question above is no. Even a
"B" general is in violation if they handle waste. All other specialties are
clearly in violation. What this means to the lawyer and client is that: if you want to be
squeaky clean with your file, locate an "A" contractor with a HAZ certification
to perform your cleanup.
If you have any questions contact Applied Consultants at
1-800-266-6577, or E-Mail at hydro1bj@aol.com.
____________Did You Chose the Right Contractor?
