(1) A person who knowingly uses the services of an unlicensed contractor is liable for unpaid wages, damages, and civil and criminal penalties to the same extent as the unlicensed contractor.

(2) Pursuant to RCW 19.30.200, a person may prove lack of knowledge by proving that she or he relied on a license issued by the department under chapter 19.30 RCW, or upon the department's representation that the contractor was licensed. The department shall not make oral representations that a contractor is or is not licensed. All representations by the department that a contractor is licensed shall be made in writing and shall be signed by the director or the employment standards supervisor or the assistant director. The department shall not accept reliance on a supposed oral representation as proof in any administrative enforcement proceeding.