Performing such work on your own home is generally legal (as long as you received necessary permits), doing so for others in exchange for compensation is not allowed. Florida's law states that it is unlawful for a person to perform contracting work on any structure or building without a valid license .
In fact, plenty of homeowners become their own general contractors. It doesn't need to take an industry professional with years of experience to fix up a home. It just takes a vision and a sense of dedication. But it's not always smooth sailing.
Register online through the TOPB Citizen Access Portal. Or Visit our office with a copy of your Certificate of Competency from the State of Florida or Palm Beach County, whichever is applicable.
Florida Statute 489.103 requires building permits to be issued to licensed contractors. As an owner of your property, you may act as your own contractor through a specific exemption to contracting law. Owner's applying for their own permit must fill out an Owner/Builder Disclosure Statement as required by Florida law.
Owner duties and responsibilities that have arisen in typical disputes include: Providing financing for the project. Providing site surveys. Securing and paying for easements. Warranting the plans and specifications. Warranting owner furnished materials. Disclosing superior knowledge.
Generally, Florida contractors are mandated to be licensed and registered to work in the whole state. Interestingly enough, due to its sunny climate, Florida has a lot of swimming pool works that are always ongoing.
If your handyman work will become a finished part of the structure (such as replacing flooring in an entire room) and the total for the project exceeds $500, you must have a general contractor license in Florida.
Write the contract in six steps Start with a contract template. Open with the basic information. Describe in detail what you have agreed to. Include a description of how the contract will be ended. Write into the contract which laws apply and how disputes will be resolved. Include space for signatures.