Hire A Licensed Contractor

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Why Should I Hire a Licensed Contractor?

The Manatee County Building Department cares about our customers and advises them to use only licensed contractors. The cost of buying and owning a home is probably the biggest investment made by most people in their lifetime. Most unlicensed contractors are not bonded or insured and do not pay into the residential contractors' recovery fund or pay any unemployment compensation for their workers.  This is why they can often underbid the licensed professional.  Florida Statute 489 requires contractors to be licensed.  Hiring an unlicensed contractor is a violation of Florida Statute 455.228 and is subject to a fine of up to $5,000. 

 

When hiring a contractor always ask for their license number and a list of references. You can verify the license number with your local building department or the state to ensure that they are active and their insurance is up to date. Be sure to contact the references to ask them if they were satisfied and happy with the contractor.

 

Hiring a licensed contractor offers many additional protections to the property owner, especially regarding residential property. A contractor cannot obtain a license without possessing a minimum amount of experience and must pass a business management test. The contractor may also be subject to a criminal history background check and must not have any outstanding unresolved contracting complaints.

 

Please report all unauthorized construction activity to Contractor Licensing at 941-749-3047.