Minor repairs include but are not limited to: Small electrical work and plumbing work is allowed. Caulking and painting. Tile cleaning and repair. Basic yard work and maintenance. Minor carpentry. Replacement and repair of interior doors and windows.
When dealing with construction and renovation, hiring a licensed contractor is critical to ensuring quality work and legal compliance. In Florida, unlicensed contracting is not only a risky affair for homeowners and businesses but also a legal issue that can result in criminal charges and civil actions.
When considering a home renovation or new construction project in Fort Lauderdale or Broward County, it's vital to understand the importance of securing the right permits. Failing to pull a permit can lead to significant legal and financial penalties.
Minor Construction or Maintenance Work: Work such as installation of water meters (up to two (2) inches) at existing service laterals, cable splice pits not in or within two (2) feet of a roadway, street light or traffic signal maintenance, or similar types of work may be done without permit or prior notice to the ...
In conclusion, obtaining a contractor's license is important in Florida for almost all types of construction work. If you don't want to obtain a license, you can become a subcontractor for a general contractor who has a license or obtain an occupational license in most counties.
If you are a handyman who only does minor repairs, you are not required to carry a contractor's license. However, if your repairs are larger in scope, it's a good idea to get a certified license in order to protect yourself and your business.
In Florida, unlicensed contracting is typically charged as a first degree misdemeanor, with penalties of up to one year in jail, twelve months of probation, and a $1,000.00 fine. However, these penalties are usually for first time offenders.
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.
Yes, there can be grounds to officially sue someone who is believed to be an unlicensed contractor.
Ing to Florida Statute 455.228 if you hire an unlicensed person, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) may issue a cease and desist order and take you to Circuit Court which has the authority to impose a civil penalty up to $5,000 for aiding and abetting unlicensed activity.