Perhaps you are like me, and love doing business with the "little guy" the local business owner who you know and trust. There are some great business owners here in Chino Hills who have grown with the city. With good ownership, and business operations also comes a great deal of responsibility. There are many laws that local businesses have to follow.
According to Chino Hills Business License Regulation 5.04.030 "No person shall conduct any business in the city without first having obtained a business license, paid the appropriate license fee, and complied with any and all applicable provisions of this code." This includes having a current business license posted in your business at all times.
A friend of mine recently had a run in with a dry cleaning business regarding some missing clothing. He eventually found that he was not the only one having issues with this company`s service. The local police were called and when the customer requested to see the business license there was none to be found.
This company failed to comply with very basic city regulation and since things like this are considered civil issues my friend was left to deal with his missing clothing on his own.
When a business doesn't display something as basic as their business license, it can be a sign that they are not diligent about their business. I encourage Chino Hills shoppers to get informed on what their rights are as consumers. To help in this effort, I recently contacted the business department of Chino Hills and asked what they recommended consumers look out for.
Here are some things they suggested:
- Check to see that the business you are in is Licensed with the City of Chino Hills, and that the license is valid and visible.(In the case of restaurants, check to make sure they have their letter grade posted.)
- If you have any questions about the validity of a license give the City of Chino Hills a call, and inquire about the business, all information posted on the licenses is public information.
- If you have any complaints about a certain business, Call Chino Hills Code enforcement, consumer affairs, or the Better Business Bureau, but please be aware that the City of Chino Hills does not regulate business practices.
- If you are working with a contractor, assure yourself that they have a current license with California and check to see if they are bonded.
- I also suggest taking the time to introduce yourself to your favorite local business owner, let them know your loyalty to them, ask them questions or make comments on their service and what you think of their establishment. This will help build better relationships with the people we do business with on a daily basis.
and is not a part of nor affiliated with the City of Chino Hills.