A five-minute check that can save you from the most common hiring mistake.
Many trades in Florida, including roofing, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, pool and general contracting, require a state license. A licensed contractor has met state requirements and can pull permits for the work.
Hiring someone unlicensed for work that needs a license can leave you without recourse if something goes wrong.
Ask the contractor for their license number. Then go to myfloridalicense.com and use the license search. Check that the name matches the company you're hiring, the license is current, and the license type fits the job.
Some local trades are licensed by the county instead of the state. If you can't find a license, ask the contractor which agency issued it.
Ask for a current certificate of insurance before work starts and look at the dates. For larger jobs, ask whether workers' compensation coverage or an exemption is in place.
Get the scope, price, schedule and warranty in writing. For many residential contracts, Florida requires a notice about the Florida Homeowners' Construction Recovery Fund. Read it.