Hiring a Contractor?
Below are some helpful hints to follow when hiring a contractor:
- Get at least three estimates from different contractors for the same job. Don’t be victimized by someone making a door-to-door presentation offering to do repair jobs or home improvements "on-the-spot" and requiring a cash deposit.
- Make sure that the contractor you choose is licensed by the State of Florida or your county government. To verify if a contractor is licensed, visit https://myfloridalicense.com/ and click on the link, "Search for a License, Permit, or Registration". You can also call 850-487-1395.
- Ask your contractor for references, and follow up with those references. Make personal contacts and ask about the quality of work.
- Read your contract very carefully, including warranty information on any products used to strengthen your home. Require a written contract with the contractor’s license number on it. Don’t sign if there are any blank areas and until you fully understand the terms.
- Don’t pay cash, don’t let payments get ahead of the work completed, and don’t pay the full cost of the job up-front. Make sure that building material costs are paid; ask for receipts.
- Make sure that the products used meet code requirements and all appropriate building permits have been pulled with the Town.
- Check workers’ compensation coverage by requesting to see a certificate of insurance. If injuries occur on your property, you may be liable.
For more tips when hiring a contractor, visit go to http://myflorida.com/dbpr/, view brochure, and visit Palm Beach County's Contractor information page.
You can verify if a Florida contractor has a state license by visiting www.myflorida.com or by calling the board office at (850) 487-1395.
(sources: myflorida.com and Florida’s Construction Industry Licensing Board)
