How to Choose a Concrete Contractor in Brentwood, CA

1. Check the license first

CSLB's C-8 Concrete classification covers forming, pouring, placing and finishing flat and pavement concrete work (CSLB). CSLB also says anyone who contracts for work valued at $1,000 or more in combined labor and materials, or work that needs a permit, must hold a current, valid license (CSLB). Look up any contractor on the CSLB license check: confirm the name, status and classification match, and read any complaint disclosures.

2. Get it in writing: what a good quote includes

• Exact dimensions and the area in square feet
• Demolition and haul-off of anything being removed
• Base preparation and grading, with drainage direction
• Thickness, stated in inches
• Reinforcement type: rebar, wire mesh or fiber
• Control-joint layout
• Finish and color, with a sample if possible
• Sealing, if included, and curing instructions
• Warranty terms and exclusions, in writing
• Payment schedule and start and completion dates

For reference, HomeGuide says driveways for standard vehicles should be at least 4 inches thick, with 5 to 6 inches for heavy vehicles (HomeGuide). If a quote does not state thickness, ask.

3. Know the deposit limit

CSLB's homeowner checklist says a down payment should be no more than 10% of the contract price or $1,000, whichever is less (CSLB). Pay in stages tied to completed work.

4. Questions to ask every contractor

• Who will do the work, and will subcontractors be used?
• What is the plan if it rains or the schedule slips?
• What happens if the slab cracks, and does the warranty cover it?
• How will drainage work, and where will the water go?
• What do I need to do before and after the pour?

5. Red flags

• No written scope, or a quote that omits thickness, base or reinforcement
• A request for a large deposit, or pressure to pay up front
• A "cash discount" that skips the written contract
• An unwillingness to share a license number
• Pressure to sign the same day

How our quote request works

You tell us about your project. We pass your request to an independent concrete contractor serving East Contra Costa, who contacts you directly to measure and quote. We don't set prices, schedules or warranties, and we don't guarantee any work. See how referrals work.

Hiring for pavers instead?

Paver jobs have a different checklist, with base depth and edging at the center. Read how to choose a paver contractor.

Sources

• CSLB — C-8 Concrete classification (accessed Oct 2026)
• CSLB — What Kind of Contractor Do You Need? (accessed Oct 2026)
• CSLB — Check a License (accessed Oct 2026)
• CSLB — Homeowner Checklists (accessed Oct 2026)
• HomeGuide — Concrete Driveway Cost (Jun 3, 2025)