Bein

Brechtel-Jochim Group, Inc., Thomas W. Brechtel, Linda Brechtel, Randy Jochim and Ann Jochim appeal from a default judgment. They argue the trial court had no personal jurisdiction over them. They maintain service of summons and complaint upon a guard at the entrance of a gated community does not meet the requirements of Code of Civil Procedure section 415.20 because a gate guard is neither a competent member of the household nor a person apparently in charge of the business. We disagree and affirm.

I

Robert Bein and William Frost & Associates (Bein) entered into written contracts with Brechtel-Jochim Group, Inc., et al., for engineering work. Bein, claiming it had completed the job, filed the underlying action when Brechtel refused to pay. The complaint alleged breach of contract and common counts, and named Brechtel and its sole shareholders, the Brechtels and the Jochims, as defendants. Asserting the individuals were alter egos of the corporation, Bein sought to pierce the corporate veil. The complaint prayed for damages in the sum of $69,347.01 plus interest, reasonable attorney fees and costs of the suit.

Bein attempted to serve the Jochims at their home on three…