Tag: how do i get a contractor license

Contractor Products to Put on Your Wish List

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As a contractor, you have to stay on top of things in your field. Whether there’s a new regulation or way to do something, you should know it and implement it. The world is moving at a fast pace these days; people want the newest and best of everything. So whether you’re working on a home, an office building, or even a bridge, you want to be equipped with the latest and best information, products, and methods. One way to stay on top of things in the contracting world is to be aware (and invest in) the best products in the field. Quality tools and equipment will make your job easier in more ways than one.

As a Florida contractor licensing company, we wanted to share with you a few of the latest products out in the field for you to purchase on your own or for your place of employment.

Winbag – If you’re a residential or commercial contractor, you probably do your share of installing a lot of windows. This is no easy task. Measurements needs to be price. Windows are heavy. Well, winbag can help. It is an inflatable shim that fills gaps from 3/32 inches to 2 inches. It can make windows level, and it even works on doors and cabinets. It is a fiber-reinforced material made with rubber. With this device, you no longer have to use wooden shims or plastic wedges. It can lift up to 300 pounds.  You can purchase this device on Amazon.

SnapPower Charger – This USB charger provides a 1-AMP USB port to any wall outlet. It installs easily over any wall outlet.

Paint Shield – Paint Shield is a microbicidal pain from Sherwin-Williams that kills 99.9% of deadly organisms. It can kill staph, MRSA, and E.coli within two hours of exposure on a painted surface. This paint is great for schools, hospitals, public facilities, and even a home. It’s available in more than 550 colors.

These three products are just a few of the great new, innovative ideas that are being produced to help contractors’ jobs easier and more efficient. You can work better, or offer better quality products to your clients.

Come back to our blog often to read about even more cool and new products.

If you’re looking to get your Florida contractor’s license, we can help! We have helped thousands of contractors get their license. We do all the heavy lifting for you; we know what is needed to get your application completed and accepted. To start with us today, click here or call 239-777-1028.

 

Have the 2017 Construction Trends Come True Yet?

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Early in 2017, there were many trends and outlooks predicted for the construction industry. With only a few months left in the year, how do you think the outlook measures up to what is occurring? As a Florida contractor licensing company, we wanted to share with you some of these outlooks and trends that were noted to occur in 2017. Take note if you’ve seen any of these in action or developing, or not. Some of these trends may even crossover into 2018.  According to constructiondive.com, they identified the following as trends and outlooks for 2017:

Economists predicted there to be a 5 percent growth in construction.

  • Collaborative team projects will become more commonplace.
  • There will still be a labor shortage. The number of workers in the industry dropped significantly since 2006 and it has yet to turn around.
  • It is unknown what will happen with regulations, taxes, labor policy, and more under the new Trump administration.
  • Offsite/modular/prefab construction will continue to grow.
  • Increase in infrastructure spending.
  • The cost of doing business in the construction world will rise because of material and labor costs.
  • More companies will use virtua reality technology to help detect errors early on in the project.
  • Sustainable and green building methods will continue to grow.

How do these trends and predictions stack up? Have you experienced any of this at your job?

Do you want to enter the construction industry? The field is continuing to grow each year. If you want to get your Florida contractor’s license, we can help you! We know exactly what is needed to complete and apply successfully. We will get you licensed fast, and you won’t have to stress about a thing. We will work with you every step of the way. We also help clients get contractor’s licenses from different states. To get started on your Florida contractor’s license today, click here or call us as 239-777-1028.

Requirements for a Florida Contracting License

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In order to legally perform contractor services in the state of Florida, you will need to obtain a Florida contracting license. If you fail to undergo the testing and licensing, you will be subject to fines and other penalties for failure to comply. What follows is a brief rundown of the guidelines and requirements entailed in applying for a contracting license.

 

First, you will have to take two brief exams that cover topics related to finance and the trade(s) you are looking to become licensed in. If you are an electrical contractor, you will need to undergo a slightly different process. You will not be required to take these tests, but rather, will have to undergo trade specific tests due to the complex and potentially dangerous nature of the work.
In order to qualify for the appropriate tests, you will need to be able to show proof of having at least four years of work experience in the construction or trade field. If you are looking to get a contracting license for a business, you will also need to provide proof of financial assets. Requirements for total assets may range from $2,500-20,000, depending on the type of certification you are looking to obtain. You will also be required to carry and show proof of a current liability insurance plan.

 

For licensed contractors in the state of Florida, your license must be renewed every two years. Additionally, you will need to undergo at least 14 hours of continued education (details on what qualifies can be found on the state’s website) during that time period as well. This is to help ensure that all contractors regularly get training in the newest regulations and techniques.

 

There are different registration periods during which you can apply for a contract as an individual or as a business. For individuals, you can apply from May 1 in even years or September 1 in odd years. For businesses, you can apply from May 1 in even years and September 1 in odd years as well. The fees for registration run about $300 for both individuals and businesses.

 

For those who are looking to become individual licensed contractors or who wish to start a contracting business in the state of Florida, it is important to be properly licensed to avoid fees and other penalties. In order to obtain a license, you will need to take a number of basic tests, provide a proof of income, work experience, and apply during the appropriate time period. Your license will be valid for two years and you must received at least 14 hours of continued education related to your field in order to qualify to be relicensed.

 

Are you looking to get your Florida contractor’s license? Let us help you! We are a Florida contractor licensing company. To get started on the application process, click here or call 239-777-1028.

An ‘active’ year predicted for hurricanes in Florida

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It’s mid-July, and we’re 1½ months into the 2017 Atlantic hurricane season. Weather forecasters have predicted an active hurricane season, with as many as 17 storms expected (and named, from Franklin to Jose, Ophelia to Tammy). A handful of those could turn from tropical storms into hurricanes, with sustained winds up to 74 to 95 mph — the range for a Category 1 storm – or higher.

 

Officials say it’s never too early to start preparing for the uncertainty of hurricane season. 2016 was the most active year for hurricanes in the Sunshine State since 2012, with four major storms wreaking havoc along the state’s eastern seaboard. Hurricanes Matthew and Hermine together caused more than $1.5 billion in property damage, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

 

And while hurricane season officially ends Nov. 30, the potential for severe weather remains year-round: In January, a series of tornadoes ripped through areas of Florida and Georgia over two days, causing extensive property damage and killing more than a dozen people.

 

Wild weather poses unique challenges for contractors – whether they’re installing solar panels, repairing swimming pools or remodeling homes. Here are some things to consider as the hurricane season advances into August:

 

–With storms developing by the week, it’s important to keep tabs daily – or even hourly — on changes in weather systems, so that project schedules can be adjusted at job sites.

 

–Communicate regularly with workers about emergency procedures and safety plans. The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) publishes guidelines for storm preparedness.

 

–With major storms closing in, contractors should clean up and secure work sites, especially those with heavy machinery and equipment. Objects such as portable bathrooms, garbage bins, tools and loose building materials can turn into damaging projectiles during high-wind events. Board-up windows and seal doorways, and expect localized flooding.

 

In a storm’s aftermath, when the demand for emergency repairs is high, don’t get caught performing unlicensed work. Roof repairs, the installation of new windows, plumbing work, electrical rewiring and the rebuilding of marine docks all require a license – and not just one single license. The penalties for performing unlicensed work, even for first-time offenders, are stiff — up to one year in prison or 12 months of probation, and a fine of $1,000.

 

That’s especially important to know for out-of-state contractors seeking work in Florida.

 

A Florida contractor licensing company can help companies navigate the state’s licensing requirements, with approvals as quick as 10 days. For more information on Florida contractor requirements or to get an application started, visit our Florida Contractor Licensing website or call 239-777-1028.

Renewing a Florida Contracting License

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Pretty much all states have their own rules and regulations surrounding how one legally operates as a contractor within their state. Florida is, of course, no different. To legally work within the state of Florida as a residential or independent contractor, you are required to be licensed by the state. Basically, what this entails is that you provide certain proof of skills and other requirements, and then take a couple of tests related to your field.

 

Most people know that they need a license to operate in Florida, but many are less sure about what goes into renewing your license, which is something you will need to do every two years to remain in good legal standing. If all your information with the state of Florida is up to date, you should receive a renewal notice in the mail about a month before your license is set to expire.

 

This is incredibly helpful as, two years in, you are likely amid working on a variety of projects that are at different levels of progress. When you receive your renewal notice, you are going to be prompted to double check all your information such as address, phone number, email address, etc. It might not seem like a big deal, but failing to make sure that all your information is up to date can lead to delays in getting your license renewed, so it is imperative that you look this information over and update anything necessary.

 

You will also be asked to supply a few other pieces of information to renew your license, as well. You will need to show proof of continuing education and training. You may also be asked to provide current proof of insurance and perhaps a few smaller pieces of information. Be sure to look over your renewal documents carefully to ensure that you have included all required information. Certain counties may require slightly different types of documentation.

 

While it is a hassle, it is important to be ready and prepared when your two-year contracting license renewal information comes in the mail, it is important to gather all the pertinent information, as this will make it a lot easier to get your renewal through and approved without any delay. The paperwork you receive about your renewal will tell you all the pieces of information you will need to provide to approve your renewal. Having all your proverbial ducks in a row helps to make this a simple and smooth process.

 

Let us help you renew (or get) your Florida contractor’s license. We are a Florida contractor licensing company. Click here or call us at 239-777-1028 to get started on the process today.

Do You Want a Career in Roofing?

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If you like working with your hands, and doing physical labor, a job as a roofing contractor could be a great match for you. Well, unless you’re afraid of heights!

What does a roofing contractor do? They install, maintain, repair, alter, extend and design everything to do with roofs. They are skilled in knowing how to waterproof, coat, repair, stop leaks, and more. Roofing contractors repair and replace and install roofs in both residential homes and commercial buildings. A roofer can be self-employed or work for a larger construction-based company. This job  will never be put out of work as roofs will always be found on homes and buildings across the country and world.

You can’t just have knowledge of roofing to become a roofer. You need a license. Without the license, you are practicing illegally and unsafely. If any problem occurs, you can get into a lot of legal trouble.

As a roofer, you can also have a specialty. Roofs are made from all different materials. Roofers can choose which type of roofs they are exceptionally skilled at installing or repair, like metal or tile, and some even do solar panels.

As a contractor licensing company, we can help you get your Florida roofer contractor’s license. We have helped thousands complete their application successfully and get their license fast. As part of the application process, there are certain requirements and experience needed in order to get a license. Here is a list of what is required.

  • Four years of experience working under a licensed roofing contractor. This experience can be reduced by up to 3 years with college credits and/or military service.
  • At least one year out of the four years of work experience must have been as a foreman
  • You have to show experience from this employment period that shows substantial compliance with statutory experience requirements in all of these areas:
    • Built-up Roofing Systems
    • Built-up Roofing
    • Roll Roofing
    • Modified Bitumen
    • Cold Process
    • Single-ply Systems
    • Single-ply
    • Foam
    • Architectural Metal Roofing
    • Concrete and Tile Roofing
    • Shingles & Shakes
    • Gutters and Downspouts

 

If you’re ready to get your Florida roofer contractor’s license, please contact us to get started. The process can be stressful and complicated, but we know the ins and outs of everything needed. We will do all the hard work for you. Click here or call 239-777-1028 to get started on the contractor license process today.

 

 

Florida Residential Contracting Licensing

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In most states, you must obtain certain types of licensing to legally operate within the state as a contractor of any kind. In Florida, residential contractors of all types are required to sit for two different exams to qualify for the license that allows you to operate in the state.

 

Whether you yourself are a contractor, or you own a contracting business, licensing is required from everyone within the organization. In Florida, contractor’s licenses must be renewed every two years in order to maintain compliance.

 

There are two tests required of general contractors, specialty contractors may be required to take a different set of tests specific to their field. These tests relate to finance and basic business practices.

To even qualify to take the test, you must be able to show proof of at least four years of experience within your field. You will also be required to subject an asset disclosure and will have to have a certain net worth to qualify for certain types of contractor classification.

It is also required that you have proof of general liability insurance that has certain minimums for bodily injury and property damage.

Once you have met all these requirements, you are eligible for the tests required to receive licensing. If you pass both tests and receive your contracting license, you will need to renew the license every two years. One of the requirements for renewal is that you take at least 14 hours of continuing education courses during that two-year period. You can contact the state directly to get a detailed list of what all counts as continuing education for the purposes of license renewal.

 

The process is straightforward and simple. There are a wide range of different study materials that you can obtain to help prepare you for the two tests you must take in order to pass the licensing test. Knowing everything you will need to have in order ahead of time makes the process of getting a license a lot easier than it might otherwise be. It allows you to be better prepared and likely more confident in your ability to pass the required tests.

 

To legally operate as a residential contractor in Florida, you must obtain the appropriate licensing from the state. To become a licensed residential contractor, you will need to provide proof of net worth, liability insurance, experience, and you will also need to take two pertinent tests. If you pass, you will then receive licensing for two years. To renew your license every two years, you must participate in a small amount of continued education in order to qualify for renewal.

 

Looking to get your Florida residential contractor’s license? We can help you through the process; we can make it pain-free and simple. We are a Florida contractor licensing company. To get started with us, click here or call 239-777-1028.

How Do I Become An Electrical Contractor?

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Have you thought about a career as an electrical contractor? As an electrical contractor, your specialty is in electrical systems. You will design, install and maintain these systems. But remember, an electrical contractor is not an electrician. An electrical contractor is able to employ his or her own electricians; however, both an electrical contractor and electrician need a specific license to operate their businesses legally and safely.

We are a contractor licensing company who helps people get their Florida contractor’s license.  When applying for a Florida electrical contractor’s license, you will have to deal with a lot of paperwork and items that need to be gathered. Sadly, there are a lot of ways the application process can go wrong. You can miss some paperwork; you could forget to fill out a certain section; you could miss a deadline. When you work with us, we are able to do all of this for you, and we’ve been doing this for years with a very high success rate. We can get you licensed fast in the state of Florida.

For the Florida electrical contractor’s license, here is a list of some items and experience you will need in order to be approved. All of this must occur in the years immediately preceding the filing of the application.

  • Three years of management experience in the electrical trader within the last six years
  • Four years of experience as a foreman, supervisor or contractor in the trade within the last eight years.
  • Six years of comprehensive training, technical education or supervisory experience associated with an electrical or alarm contracting business.
  • W-2s, K1s or Schedule Cs for all of the years of experience.
  • Notarized Employment verifications
  • Possible job list of five jobs per year of experience.
  • Personal financial statement showing positive net worth.
  • Business financial statement showing net worth of $10,000 for unlimited.
  • Business and personal credit report.

 

For a more thorough and detailed list, visit the site of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

 

If you’d like help getting a Florida electrical contractor’s license, let us help you. We will make it easy and fast for you. We have helped thousands get their license. Click here or call 239-777-1028.

Does Your Contracting Service Require Florida Licensing?

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When it comes to providing a range of different contractual services in Florida, you may or may not need licensing and even certain permits in order to proceed with the project and be good with the laws of the state. Failing to obtain the proper permits or licenses can result in hefty fines, penalties, and even worse if you are a repeat offender. This is why it is really important to know whether or not you need licensing for a project you have been contracted to undertake.

The basic rule of thumb is that, for most construction related services, your company and perhaps everyone who works in said company, will need to be licensed by the state in order to operate lawfully. This licensing is not required for, say, a group of friends getting together to help a buddy with a weekend project. These licensing requirements are intended for people who receive financial compensation for their work.

Pretty much any sort of major undertaking, particularly if it can affect the structural integrity of the building you are working on, is going to require each person on the project have the appropriate state licensing. However, even if you are getting compensation, there are some projects that do not require state licensing.

Things that are superficial or aesthetic, such installing non-fixed awnings, cleaning of pools and spas, installation or maintenance of irrigation systems, can all be performed for compensation without a license. Driveways and sidewalks, water filtration systems, and even replacement of drywall (so long as it does not effect a load bearing wall) can also be undertaken without a license.

Regardless of what type of project you plan on undertaking, it is recommended to check to ensure that you have the right licensing and permits for any project you are going to be compensated for. Almost all major projects, including anything electrical, structural, or dealing with lead bearing walls or frames, is going to require all who are on the contracted team to be licensed by the state.

 

However, there are smaller, more superficial projects that are routine parts of most contracting jobs that can be performed by an unlicensed worker without any issue. You can find a comprehensive list of what actions require licensing and which do not on the Florida state website, but it is still advised to double check, especially if the project you have been tasked with isn’t on the list.

 

If you’re looking to get a Florida contractor’s license, we can help. We are a Florida contracting licensing company. For more information, click here or call 239-777-1028.

How to Get a Florida Contractor’s License

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It goes without saying that getting a contractor license in Florida can be a headache.

This is good and bad for a few reasons but most importantly, it is good because it guarantees Florida citizens that the work they will receive will be top notch. On the other hand, contractors have to go through a strict, semi-complicated, and long process to achieve appropriate licensure within the state.

 

Florida has quite a few guidelines that aren’t followed in other states, but this just shows how important it is to take the proper necessary steps, and make the paperwork and effort you put in all the more perfect so you don’t waste your valuable time when you could be out getting work!

 

A Certified Contractor in Florida has the ability to contract work anywhere in the entire state of Florida. This is the better option for trade workers, as compared to Registered Contractors.

 

The guidelines and requirements for each license are a bit different, but here we will focus mainly on the requirements and guidelines to obtain a Certified Contractor License in the state of Florida.

 

  1. The person seeking a contractor license must have at least four years of experience in the field that they are seeking certification. At least one of the four years must be in a supervisor role. The four years of experience must be verified by a pre-existing Florida Certified Contractor, or a licensed engineer, building official, or architect.
  2. Applicants must successful complete the Florida Certified Contractor’s Examination.
  3. Candidates must have Worker’s Compensation (or exempt forms), Liability, and Property Damage Insurance.
  4. Applicants must also provide proof of satisfaction of liens and judgments, proper showing financial stability, a credit report, and a net worth requirement under Rule 61G4-15.005, FAC.

 

It sounds like a lot of work, but if you have the right people on your side helping you with the paperwork, it is a breeze to receive your Certified Contractor License in Florida. This contractor license will allow you to take work anywhere in the state, which will help you build your business, and open new doors for work opportunities.

 

If you need helping getting your Florida contractor’s license, let us help you. We have helped thousands of people in Florida get licensed. We are a Florida-based contracting company, but we also help people get licensed in other states, as well. Click here or call 239-777-1028 to get the process started today.