Some Helpful Tips: >> Review your contract before you sign it. >> Contact your insurance company to make sure work performed is covered under insurance policy. >> Avoid paying cash. >> Avoid any contractor who requires full payment in advance. Arrange to pay after the contractor completes the work or in agreed-upon installments. >> Don’t sign off that work is completed until all work is finished according to your contract, and the contractor has cleared all permits with final inspection approval from the building department. >> If your contract exceeds $2,500, become familiar with the Florida Construction Lien Law. See the link below. >> Most jobs require permits. Always check with your local building department regarding permits needed for your project. To verify a contractor’s license, or to file a complaint against a contractor, call 1.850.487.1395 or go to the Department’s website: www.MyFloridaLicense.com For information about the Florida Construction Lien Law: http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_ Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0713/PART01.HTM Report Unlicensed Activity Toll-Free at: 1.866.532.1440 Additional information: www.BobVila.com/MyFloridaLicense/ For answers to other questions or for assistance following a disaster or emergency, contact the following: American Red Cross: 1.800.HELP.NOW (1.800.435.7669) Attorney General’s Price Gouging Hotline: 1.800.646.0444 Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Consumer Tips for Natural Disasters 1-800-HELP-FLA (1.800.435.7352)
The Florida Bar (Lawyer Referral Service): 1.800.342.8011 Florida Emergency Information Line 24-hour Hotline (FEIL): 1.800.342.3557 (This number is only operational during an emergency event.)
Department of Elder Affairs: 1.800.96.ELDER (1.800.963.5337) Department of Financial Services Insurance Claim Hotline: 1.800.22.STORM (1.800.227.8676)
License efficiently. Regulate fairly.
1940 N. Monroe St. Tallahassee, Florida 32399
Protect Your Investment… Hire Only Licensed Contractors