Can an unlicensed alarm company file a court action against his/her customer for non-payment of alarm work?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only with a small claims filing fee
• D. Only if the customer signs a contract

Answer: (B)

In California, performing alarm work requires a valid alarm company operator license. An unlicensed alarm company cannot lawfully provide alarm services or enforce payment for those services in court. Because the work was done by someone not licensed, any attempt to sue the customer for non-payment would be based on an unenforceable contract, and the court would not allow the unlicensed party to collect. This licensing protection helps ensure accountability and quality for alarm services, which is why the correct stance is that an unlicensed operator cannot file a lawsuit to recover payment.