How to Verify Your Contractor: Licensing, Insurance & Red Flags
How to Verify Your Contractor: Licensing, Insurance & Red Flags
Hiring the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during a remodel. A licensed, insured, and transparent contractor can save you thousands in mistakes, delays, and liability exposure. Unfortunately, not all contractors play by the rules — and in Florida, the risk is real.
1. Make Sure They're Properly Licensed
In Florida, all general contractors must hold a state-issued license from the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR). This ensures they’ve met education, testing, and financial responsibility requirements.
- Use the DBPR license search tool to verify name, license number, and current status.
- Check for complaints or disciplinary actions.
- A general contractor should be licensed as a “Certified General Contractor” (CGC).
2. Require Proof of Insurance
A legitimate contractor will provide:
- General Liability Insurance — protects your property from damage during the project.
- Workers’ Compensation — covers jobsite injuries, unless the contractor has a legal exemption.
If they use subcontractors, ask whether the subcontractors are insured independently or working under the GC's policy. If the contractor uses a PEO (employee leasing service), make sure the policy reflects that structure.
3. Ask for Their Contract & Scope
A professional contractor will use a clear contract that includes start and end dates, scope of work, payment schedule, and a change order process. Avoid anyone unwilling to provide written documentation or rushing you to sign without reading.
4. Know the Red Flags
- “We don’t need a permit.” ← That’s usually a lie.
- Unwilling to provide references or proof of insurance.
- No company email or website — just a phone number.
- Uses only cash or Venmo/Zelle without documentation.
- Has multiple business entities with similar names — may be trying to hide bad reviews or legal issues.
5. Research Their Reputation
Look for verified Google reviews, BBB ratings, and photo evidence of their work. Be cautious of perfect reviews that look generic or duplicate across platforms. Word of mouth is helpful, but online reputation tells you how they handle all types of clients.
Bottom Line: Before starting any remodel, take time to vet your contractor. A license and insurance aren’t optional — they’re the foundation of a safe, legal, and successful project.
Code Construction is a licensed and insured Certified General Contractor (#1511616) with an A+ BBB rating, serving Tampa Bay homeowners for over 20 years. We welcome questions and provide full documentation for every project.
Have questions about hiring the right contractor? Reach out to our team today.