Warning Signs - Protect Yourself

• The contractor does not display his contractor license on all vehicles, contracts and business cards. Ask to see a copy of the contractor’s license you are considering hiring.
• The contractor shows you only an occupational license number or business tax number. These are not a contractor’s license.
• The contractor does not have proof of insurance. Licensed contractors must have general liability, property damage, and workers’ compensation insurance in effect at all times.
• The contractor informs you that the job does not require a building permit. Check with your local Building Official. Almost all projects, with a few exceptions, require a building permit.
• The contractor claims it is cheaper and quicker for you to get the building permit yourself. A licensed contractor who is in good standing will always obtain the permit.
• The contractor is not willing to put all terms in writing. Never accept a verbal contract. Do not make any payment without a written contract.
• Someone other than the person or company contracting to do the work obtains the permit. A licensed contractor in good standing will always obtain his/her own permit.
• A large down payment is requested before work begins. Payments should only be for a part of the work. In order to be licensed, contractors must demonstrate sufficient financial ability to perform the type of work for which the license is specified.
• The progress payments should reflect approximately the work that has been done. Do not make final payment until proof of the final inspection is provided.
• You are asked to make your check payable to an individual instead of a company name. You are asked to make a payment in cash, or you are asked to make the check payable to cash. Licensed contractors will almost always have a separate business account.
• In unincorporated Miami-Dade County, certain types of work do not require a permit. Those exemptions are listed here: http://www.miamidade.gov/permits/exemptions.asp.

Verify Licensure and Insurance or File a Complaint

Contact the Miami-Dade County Contractor Licensing Section at 786-315-2880 or online at http://www.miamidade.gov/building/contractor-inquiry-search.asp and the State of Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation at 850-487-1395 to determine if the contractor is licensed, insured or has complaints or violations on record.

If You Live In a Municipality

Contact your municipality’s building department for specific information about and regulations in your area. If your business is located in a municipality, contact your municipal building official for information about their building permit process.