Tag: how do i get a florida contractor license

Five great iOS apps for contractors

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Five great iOS apps for contractors

 

Let’s face it: If you’re not using your iPhone to “life hack” – that is, take a shortcut in a novel way to boost productivity or save time – you’re missing out big time. That small-ish Apple computer in your pocket can do a lot – more than you probably think.

 

Contractors throughout the country are increasingly turning to low-cost mobile apps to help with everyday tasks, at a time when the construction industry has been slow to adopt time-saving technologies, according to the 5th Annual Construction Technology Report, a study co-developed by Texas A&M University.

 

Here are five affordable, top-rated iOS apps for contractors that will help make the workday a little easier:

 

  1. Fieldwire by Fieldwire (https://appsto.re/us/nggGU.i)

 

Fieldwire is an easy-to-use task management app designed by construction professionals for construction professionals. The free trial version is ideal for small teams, and allows contractors to view and share blueprints, create and delegate task lists and track issues. In-app upgrades offer additional project management features.

 

Cost: Free trial version; $29 per user for Pro version, $39 per user for Business version

 

  1. Photo Measures by Big Blue Pixel Inc. (https://appsto.re/us/d1pVy.i)

 

Photo Measures allows contractors to photograph a space and note dimensions on those photos – a helpful way to remember the layout of a work site. Measurements can be edited, comments can be added and photos are easily imported or exported as .jpeg or .pdf files.

 

Cost: $6.99; free lite version

 

  1. RoomScan Pro by Locometric (https://appsto.re/us/dj3jO.i)

 

Draft floor plans by touching the walls of a room with your iPhone – no tape measure required. Contractors can easily add doors to blueprints by touching doorframes — or stairs by placing the phone on the top and bottom steps.

 

Cost: $4.99

 

  1. Home Builder Pro Calcs by Double Dog Studios (http://appsto.re/us/qvgeA.i)

 

Home Builder Pro Calcs offers hundreds of home improvement calculations and unit conversions – from roofing and framing to concrete and paving – as well as estimators for business expenses, materials and work hours. Calculations can be easily emailed from the app.

 

Cost: $4.99

 

  1. iHandy Level by iHandy Inc. (https://appsto.re/us/rp23r.i)

 

Level is a simple app with a range of uses beyond straightening wall photos. From angle measurements to roof pitch calculations, the app essentially replaces one of the longest tools in your toolbox. iHandy’s Carpenter ($1.99) adds additional features such as a plumb bob level and 0-to-180-degree protractor, but the enhanced app’s ruler reportedly doesn’t work well with the iPhone 7.

 

Cost: Free

 

For contractor news, updates and other helpful information, check out our company blog, which is updated frequently.  We are a Florida contractor licensing company. To obtain a Florida contractor’s license, click our Florida Contractor’s License page or call 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.

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.

 

 

How to Renew a Contractor License

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Do you currently have a Florida contractor’s license? Is it up for renewal? If you’re unsure of how to renew your contractor’s license, we can help you through the process. We will take you through the steps needed to renew your license correctly.

 

When renewing your contractor’s license, there is two parts. First, you have to pay a renewal fee; then, you have to complete continuing education (CEU) courses.

 

If you are a registered contractor in the state of Florida, you are likely registered online with the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR). Click here to access the DBPR’s website. Log into your account. If you do not have an account set up yet, click here for a tutorial on how to create your account and how to link your contractor license to the account.  In this site, you can upload necessary documents and paperwork, check your application status, renew your license, make payments, update contact information view classes information, and more.

 

Once you’re logged into the site, these are the steps for contractor license renewal:

  1. Click on the contractor license you want to renew. The list to choose from is on the right.
  2. Select “Renew”
  3. A disclaimer screen will pop up explaining CEU information. After you read it, click “Next.”
  4. A screen with your name, birthday and SSN will pop up. Click “Next.”
  5. A screen with your main address will pop up. If you need to change your address, click the “Main Address” button. If you’d like to add an additional address or add a new phone number, click “Add.”
  6. Click “Next” when done with address information.
  7. A summary page will pop up to conform any change mads. It will provide the information about to be saved into the system. Read this page. If the information is correct, click “Next.” If there is an error, click “Previous” to make changes.
  8. Complete the Attest Statement by selecting “Yes,” followed by “Submit.”
  9. A payment screen will pop up showing the renewal price. Click “Pay Now” to complete the transaction or click “Submit Additional Applications” if you have more than one license that needs renewal. You can pay either by credit card or electronic check.
  10. After you enter in your payment information, your card will be processed, and a confirmation number will be provided for you.

 

License Renewal Parts

 

Paying Renewal Fees – Check the DBPR site for the current 2017 renewal fees for certified and registered contractors. There is also info about unlicensed activity fees.

 

CEU Requirement –  In, Florida, contractors must complete 14 hours of board-approved CEU hours for each two-year renewal cycle. Courses can be taken online or in a classroom This includes:  workplace safety, worker’s compensation, business practices, Florida laws, false alarms, and Florida Building Code. The remaining seven hours go to courses reflecting your specific trade in the contractor work whether it’s plumbing or electrical or any other specialty you’re in.

 

Need Help with Your Florida Contractor License Renewal?

If you need help with the contractor license renewal process or need help finding CEU courses, we can help you. We are a Florida contractor licensing company. To start the process today, contact us at 239-777-1028 or click here to learn more.

 

Mobile Apps for Contractors Part 3

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Contractors use mobile apps these days more than you think. Mobile apps are great for contractors and their companies because people are able to communicate offline and in the field. From time tracking to project sharing, these mobile apps are making contractors communicate with their team and clients easier.

We wanted to share with you some of the newest and best mobile apps out there that you’ll want to download. There’s an app for almost every aspect of the business these days!

Photo Measures – This app allows contractors to take photos and write dimensions directly onto the photo; people can export these photos or save them to a library.

TRUCKAST – This app allows contractors to set up ready-mix concreate order from a mobile device; it allows you o track delivery times, as well as real-time info about a pour job.

PENTA Mobile Field Inspections – This app is good for field inspectors so they don’t need to use paper.

Fall Safety – For those contractors who work at taller heights, this app provide fall detection and can detect falls. If the app thinks there is a fall, it will sound an alarm for 30 seconds then alert your emergency contacts through email, text, and voicemail.

Corecon Mobile – This lets contractors share punch lists, project dynamics, administration, and daily logs.

iHandy Carpenter – This app helps carpenters by acting as a tool for such things as measuring and leveling.

iSafe Inspections – This app helps construction teams save money while managing their safety programs; contractors can automate the type of inspection (safety audits, work orders, property assessments, asset management, service management, and custom forms.

PlanGrid – This app allows contractors and architects to collaborate on project plans, specs and photos.

Looking for a job in contracting and need to get your Florida contractor’s license? Let us help you. We are a contractor licensing company in Southwest Florida. To get your Florida contractor’s license process started, click here of call 239-777-1028.

Contractor Products Worth Checking Out Part 2

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We live in a high-tech world; people need answers fast and are working more efficiently than ever due to new and improved technological advancements. We wanted to share with our contracting community some new and useful construction products that are currently on the market.

CYBERWATCH SAT – this is a satellite, wireless alarm and location meter, specifically designed for remote locations. In a remote location, a contractor can connect his or her phone to the device mounted on a piece of equipment. With this device, a person can send an email or text.

New Book – “A Guide to Building Natural Swimming Pools” by Schiffer Publishing covers management, excavation, lining, walling, plumbing, electrical. Planting, structure, maintenance and more.

ThermalTech – This company has released a solar-powered smart fabric. It is made from stainless steel yarn, is lightweight, and keeps the body warm even at night. This fabric is not bulky and more fashionable looking.

Starlock Multi-Tool System – This system gives a person a quick-change blades with a color code system so a person chooses the correct blade for the job at hand.

Paperlight – PaperLight is a projection display that is touch enabled; it connects to a computer so a person can view and share full-size drawings digitally.

Live streaming – TrueLook, which produces camera systems for construction project monitoring and time-lapsing, now offer a live-streaming option. Employers and managers can watch a live stream of any job site through a web app.

MyServiceWhale – This is a widget that business owners and contractors can install on their websites to give potential clients accurate quotes.

Liquid Nanotint – This product can reduce radiant and conductive heat from windows, making them more energy efficient. You can paint this product on.

New technologies in the contracting business is exciting, but only if you’re a licensed contractor! Otherwise, it’s illegal for you to be working a job. If you’re interested in becoming a contractor, you’ll want to get your Florida contractor’s license. We are a contractor licensing company. We also help people get their Georgia contractor’s license. To get started on the licensing process, click here or call 239-777-1028.

Contractor Products Worth Checking Out

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If you’re a construction contractor, you want to be on top of the latest construction products on the market. New products can help you do work faster, more efficiently, and have clients know you’re on top of the latest and greatest thing in the field. New products show that you’re a forward thinker. Below, we wanted to share some new construction products out there that you may be interested in purchasing for your contracting business.

Cat and NoteVault – Cat and Notevault came together to increase productivity by combining smartphones and technology. All purchases of Cat smartphones will come with 4 months of a Notevault account for free.

Airhome – Airhome is an in-room audio feature for a client’s home or commercial building. Airhome is a multi-room, built-in home audio system that operates on Wi-Fi. This can work with in-wall or in-ceiling speaker so the home will not have a cluttered effect with boxy speakers laying around or wires everywhere.

Houdini glass – Bendheim Wall Systems is offering this specialty architectural glass; it allows both privacy and daylight. It is translucent, u-shaped, and machine rolled.

Surface armor – Urban Armor has created a case that protects devices while being slim, form-fitting and hard and protective all at the same time.

Concept – Concept by US is a Powerstation, This is a new turnkey, solar energy storage system that gives steady, reliable energy to off-grid people in daylight and nighttime.

Scala – Scala Architectural and Engineering Scale is a new app that gives a new way to measure printed drawings anywhere. It includes standard imperial architectural, metric architectural and engineering scales.

Qvarn – Qvarn offers open source identity management software that helps an organization manage a secure database of workers’ data; this system helps protect personal and private identification of the workers.

The contracting industry is constantly improving with new technology. If you are looking to get your Florida contractor’s license and are looking to get into this industry, contact us today and let us help you. We are a contractor licensing company in Florida. Click here or call 239-777-1028 to contact us today.