How to check a contractor's license
Look up a Florida contractor on MyFloridaLicense.com, check local registration in counties like Brevard, verify workers' comp and report unlicensed work.
Updated October 26, 2026 · 9 min read
Hiring a Contractor
Hiring a contractor in Florida
The contractor you choose matters more than almost any material or design decision. These guides explain what Florida law requires, what's just good practice, and how to check a contractor yourself using official sources.
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How to Choose a Contractor in Florida
A practical checklist for hiring a Florida contractor: state license, insurance, workers' comp, quotes, contracts, deposits, liens and red flags.
Read the full guideQuick checklist
- Look up the contractor's state license at MyFloridaLicense.com and make sure the license type covers your project.
- If the license is registered rather than certified, confirm it's valid in your city or county.
- Ask for a certificate of general liability insurance from the agent or insurer, plus proof of workers' compensation or an exemption.
- Read reviews over time, not just the star rating, and look at comparable past projects.
- Get an itemized written estimate and a written contract that includes Florida's lien law and Recovery Fund notices.
- Keep the deposit reasonable. A contractor who takes more than 10% up front must apply for permits within 30 days and start within 90 days of the permit, unless you agree otherwise in writing.
- Confirm who pulls the permits and records the Notice of Commencement, and never agree to skip a required permit.
- Pay in a way that leaves a record, get receipts, and collect lien releases before the final payment.
More on hiring and working with contractors
Contractor insurance and workers' comp
What insurance Florida contractors must carry, how workers' comp and officer exemptions work, and how to verify coverage before you hire.
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How contractor deposits work in Florida: the 10% rule in section 489.126, special-order items, progress payments, lien releases and work that never starts.
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How Florida's lien law affects you
How Florida construction lien law works for homeowners: Notices to Owner, lien releases, the final affidavit and how to avoid paying twice.
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