It is very important to know your contractor when starting any construction project. What do we mean by “Know your Contractor”? There are many firms that are not properly licensed or incorrectly represent their history and experience. It is up to you, the homeowner, to investigate and find out who you are doing business with. Here is the NEC Keystone guide to researching your contractor - simple steps to choosing the right contractor.
During the initial presentation process make sure the person you are speaking can answer all your questions, not only about their company but also about the process and engineering report data.
Make sure the contractor’s license number is properly displayed on all printed literature including business cards, contracts and brochures.
Research your contractor’s license number. If they are a state certified contractor visit http://www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/ and click on Verify a License. It is highly recommended that you use a state certified contractor due to the requirements that the state puts on the contractor for insurance, performance and educational background.
Contact your local County building department and determine if they are licensed in your county. Also ask if they have any complaints or red tags against their license
Go to http://www.sunbiz.org and click on Search our Records. Inquire by Name and make sure the corporation is an active state licensed entity.
Per Florida Statute 627.707(5)(e) any contractor that offers a rebate (yard credit, storage fee, etc.) is committing a felony. Do not do business with anyone offering you a rebate to get your job. Not only are they breaking the law but they are putting you and your home at risk
Per Florida Statute 627.707(5)(e) any homeowner that accepts a rebate will have their insurance voided and will have to refund the full amount of the rebate to their insurance company. Do not let a contractor trick you into losing your insurance. There are no exceptions to this law. For more information on the new laws you can download the full text here http://laws.flrules.org/files/Ch_2011-039.pdf