How to hire a licensed contractor and why get a permit?

dj@preferredbuildersfl.com

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Vetting a contractor is crucial to ensure you’re hiring a reliable professional. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Research Credentials:

   • Check for necessary licenses and certifications relevant to your area and the type of work. https://www.myfloridalicense.com/wl11.asp?mode=0&SID=

   • Verify insurance coverage, including liability and workers' compensation.

2. Review Experience:

   • Look for contractors with experience in your specific project type (e.g., renovations, roofing).

   • Ask for references and contact them to inquire about their experiences.

   • Get references from their suppliers.

3. Check Reviews and Ratings:

   • Look up reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or Angie’s List.

   • Check for any complaints on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website.

4. Get Multiple Estimates:

   • Obtain at least three quotes to compare pricing and project timelines.

   • Be wary of estimates that are significantly lower than others.

5. Interview Candidates:

   • Ask about their process, timeline, and how they handle unforeseen issues.

   • Discuss payment terms, including deposits and payment schedules.

   • Be careful of contractors that are pushy or wants cash.

   • Look up the person on the internet. If the company has no website or social media that could be a red flag.

6. Request a Written Contract:

   • Ensure all details, including scope, materials, timelines, and costs, are documented.

   • Read the fine print and understand the terms before signing.

7. Check for Permits:

   • Confirm that the contractor will obtain necessary permits for the job.

   • This protects you and ensures compliance with local regulations.

8. Trust Your Instincts:

   • Pay attention to communication styles and professionalism during your interactions.

   • Choose someone you feel comfortable with and who is responsive to your questions.

   • Do not pay cash as a down payment.

9. Visit Past Projects:

   • If possible, visit completed projects or look at a portfolio of their work.

   • This can give you a clearer idea of their style and quality.

10. Stay Engaged Throughout the Project:

    • Maintain communication during the project and monitor progress.

    • Address any concerns immediately to avoid misunderstandings later on.

      
      

What happens if you get work done without a permit?

Getting contracting work done without a permit can lead to several consequences, including:

1. Legal Penalties: You may face fines or penalties imposed by local authorities. These can vary significantly based on the jurisdiction and the nature of the work.

2. Code Violations: The work may not meet local building codes, which can lead to safety hazards or structural issues. If discovered, you may be required to correct these violations, potentially at significant cost.

3. Increased Liability: If an accident occurs during or after unpermitted work (e.g., injury to a worker or visitor), you could be held liable. Insurance may not cover claims related to unpermitted work.

4. Difficulty Selling the Property: If you attempt to sell your home, the lack of permits for completed work can be a red flag for buyers and may hinder the sale or reduce the property value.

5. Remedial Work: You may need to obtain retroactive permits, which could involve having the work inspected and possibly having to dismantle or redo parts of it to bring it up to code.

6. Insurance Issues: Homeowners' insurance may not cover damages related to unpermitted work. If you file a claim for an incident stemming from such work, your claim could be denied.

www.preferredbuildersfl.com