Long Beach Prevailing Wage Lawyer

Common Issues With Prevailing Wage Claims

Some of the most common issues that arise in prevailing wage cases include:

• Misclassification of workers. Employers may classify workers into lower-paying job categories to avoid paying the full prevailing wage. For example, an employer may classify a skilled worker as a laborer to pay them a lower wage.
• Failure to pay overtime. Workers on public works projects are often entitled to overtime pay if they work more than eight hours a day or 40 hours a week. Some employers may try to avoid paying overtime by misreporting hours worked or classifying workers as exempt from overtime laws.
• Incorrect wage rates. Employers may pay workers less than the required prevailing wage for their role or region.

If you have experienced any of these issues, Nosrati Law can help you pursue legal action to recover the wages you are owed.

FAQs:

What Is the Prevailing Wage Law in California?

California’s prevailing wage law requires contractors and subcontractors working on public works projects to pay workers the prevailing wage rate for their specific job classification. The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) determines the prevailing wage and ensures that workers receive fair compensation/are not undercut by lower wages. The law covers various industries, including construction, electrical, plumbing, and other skilled trades.

What Is the Prevailing Wage for Plumbers in California?

The prevailing wage rate for plumbers in California varies by region and experience level. However, in many areas, plumbers working on public projects can expect to earn between $35 and $52 per hour, which does not include additional compensation for benefits like health insurance and retirement contributions. The exact rate depends on the local market conditions and the specific job classification, which may include different rates for journeyman plumbers, apprentices, and other levels of experience.

What Is the Davis Bacon Act?

The Davis Bacon Act is a federal law that requires contractors and subcontractors working on federally funded public works projects to pay their workers no less than the local prevailing wage for their job classification. This law applies to all federal projects worth over $2,000 and is designed to prevent contractors from winning government bids by offering lower wages than what is typical in the area.

Who Has the Highest Prevailing Wage?

Prevailing wage rates vary based on the job classification and the region in which the work is performed. Generally, skilled trades—electricians, plumbers, and elevator mechanics—tend to have some of the highest prevailing wage rates. Higher rates are typically found in areas with a high cost of living and a strong demand for skilled labor. Large-scale public projects, like highway construction, may also pay higher prevailing wages due to the size and complexity of the work involved.

By understanding your rights and working with an experienced Long Beach employment attorney, you can take the necessary steps to secure fair compensation for your work on public projects.

Seek Help from a Long Beach Prevailing Wage Law Firm

If you have been a victim of prevailing wage undercuts, you do not have to face this battle alone. The team at Nosrati Law, A Professional Law Corporation, can guide you through the process of holding your employer accountable for their actions and help you seek the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward achieving justice.