Who is a general contractor and how to become one?

The responsibilities of a general contractor and the steps to become one

Who is a general contractor?

A general contractor is an individual or company responsible for scheduling and overseeing the day-to-day activities of a construction project. 

 

General contractors are hired to manage a construction project from groundbreaking to its completion and as per the scope of the contract signed.

 

Sometimes they can be hired to work as construction managers – Construction Managers at Risk and Construction Managers as agents. In either case, they should have a general contractor license to oversee a construction project in Florida. They may not be able to perform all the work themselves as they may not have the appropriate state certificate for trade-specific work.

 

The broad scope of work a general contractor is:

• Assess the full scope of the project from the very initial meeting with the property owner
• Devise and manage the project plan to ensure its successful completion within the estimated timeframe and budget
• Organize and manage the construction site
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all subcontractors and the client. 
• Arrange and schedule for specialists and subcontractors in the right order, and ensure quality and timely completion of tasks
• Provide field management and labor
• Assist with cleanup, safety procedure, and demolition
• Manage client expectations by providing a realistic timeline for completion as well as arranging the necessary building permits
• Create cost estimates, which would require the contractor to consider and bill for materials, equipment rental, labor, office space, insurance expenses, worker’s compensation, and time

 

How to become a contractor in Florida?

 

Florida has one of the most extensive lists of requirements for a general contractor license compared to any other state. To work as a general contractor in Florida, individuals must be licensed with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation of the State of Florida. 

Here are the three broad steps to become a general contractor in Florida:

1. Qualifications and eligibility requirements

1. Age: Over 18 years old is mandatory to be eligible for this work.
2. Background check: A clean record is important to apply. Fingerprints will need to be provided for the background check.
3. Experience: Four years of experience or a combination of construction education and experience is needed. Details of the experience will need to be given as proof. Additionally, at least 1 year of supervisory experience as a contractor is necessary to qualify for licensing. A licensed architect, engineer, or building official would need to attest to work experience.
4. Verification of financial stability: The amount required for net income will depend on the level of classification applied for. Bank statements and a credit score report from the last 12 months will be needed as proof of net income.
5. Insurance: Documents will be needed to prove general liability insurance that covers bodily injury and property damage and workers’ compensation insurance. 

2. Application

Decide the type of license: There are two broad classifications of contractor licenses: 

• A certified license is valid throughout the entire state of Florida, which means a contractor can legally work anywhere in the state. It is, however, slightly more expensive.
• A registered license is cheaper but allows a contractor to work within specific local jurisdictions only. It also requires the issuance of a certificate of competency by those jurisdictions. 

The certified general contractor license is more popular as it grants more freedom to work anywhere in the state.

Prepare: The exam consists of 3 parts, with 9 hours to complete the exam. A minimum score of 70% is needed to pass the exam. Reference books that cover Florida building codes and other regulations are allowed during the exam. 

The 3 parts of the exam are Project Management, Contract Administration, and Business and Finance.

1. Register: An online registration can be done wherein the exam date can be chosen as per convenience. The fee for the exam is payable by credit or debit card.
2. Send application form and fee: Once the general contractor exam is passed, the application form for the license can be sent with an additional fee for the license.
3. Mail the documents: Documents like bank statements, credit score reports, and proof of employment along with a completed exam, written application, and fee should be sent to the State of Florida, Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Once the application is processed, the proof of certification will be sent by mail.

3. Play the part

1. Keep proof of certification: A certification card with the license to work in Florida must be at hand when searching for employment. This certification must be present on the resume and in job applications.
2. Apply at construction companies: Look for openings for general contractors through construction companies or visit construction companies in person.
3. Renew the license before expiry: A general contractor needs to take 14 hours of continuing education courses to maintain the license. Thereafter, one must apply for renewal before the expiry date. 

That’s a lot of paperwork and errands! What if the clients could just focus on deciding what kind of license to go for and how to prepare for it? And the rest of the worries – the documentation, the processes, the renewal, and the policy changes… everything else could be taken care of by Contractors Reporting Services.

Why Choose Contractors Reporting Services?

With over fifty years of experience, the company has the needed qualifications and expertise to ensure that a client can attain and maintain a Florida contractor’s license.

The services include:

• Initial Applications (Certification & Registration)
• Additional Entities
• Transfer/Change of Status
• Reinstatement
• Registrations
• Financial Stability Review & Report
• Local License Registration & Renewals
• Workers Comp Exemption

 

For more information about acquiring a general contractor license or learning how to become a contractor, contact Contractors Reporting Services at (813) 932-5244.

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Who is a general contractor and how to become one?

The responsibilities of a general contractor and the steps to become one

Who is a general contractor?

A general contractor is an individual or company responsible for scheduling and overseeing the day-to-day activities of a construction project. 

 

General contractors are hired to manage a construction project from groundbreaking to its completion and as per the scope of the contract signed.

 

Sometimes they can be hired to work as construction managers – Construction Managers at Risk and Construction Managers as agents. In either case, they should have a general contractor license to oversee a construction project in Florida. They may not be able to perform all the work themselves as they may not have the appropriate state certificate for trade-specific work.

 

The broad scope of work a general contractor is:

• Assess the full scope of the project from the very initial meeting with the property owner
• Devise and manage the project plan to ensure its successful completion within the estimated timeframe and budget
• Organize and manage the construction site
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all subcontractors and the client. 
• Arrange and schedule for specialists and subcontractors in the right order, and ensure quality and timely completion of tasks
• Provide field management and labor
• Assist with cleanup, safety procedure, and demolition
• Manage client expectations by providing a realistic timeline for completion as well as arranging the necessary building permits
• Create cost estimates, which would require the contractor to consider and bill for materials, equipment rental, labor, office space, insurance expenses, worker’s compensation, and time

 

How to become a contractor in Florida?

 

Florida has one of the most extensive lists of requirements for a general contractor license compared to any other state. To work as a general contractor in Florida, individuals must be licensed with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation of the State of Florida. 

Here are the three broad steps to become a general contractor in Florida:

1. Qualifications and eligibility requirements

1. Age: Over 18 years old is mandatory to be eligible for this work.
2. Background check: A clean record is important to apply. Fingerprints will need to be provided for the background check.
3. Experience: Four years of experience or a combination of construction education and experience is needed. Details of the experience will need to be given as proof. Additionally, at least 1 year of supervisory experience as a contractor is necessary to qualify for licensing. A licensed architect, engineer, or building official would need to attest to work experience.
4. Verification of financial stability: The amount required for net income will depend on the level of classification applied for. Bank statements and a credit score report from the last 12 months will be needed as proof of net income.
5. Insurance: Documents will be needed to prove general liability insurance that covers bodily injury and property damage and workers’ compensation insurance. 

2. Application

Decide the type of license: There are two broad classifications of contractor licenses: 

• A certified license is valid throughout the entire state of Florida, which means a contractor can legally work anywhere in the state. It is, however, slightly more expensive.
• A registered license is cheaper but allows a contractor to work within specific local jurisdictions only. It also requires the issuance of a certificate of competency by those jurisdictions. 

The certified general contractor license is more popular as it grants more freedom to work anywhere in the state.

Prepare: The exam consists of 3 parts, with 9 hours to complete the exam. A minimum score of 70% is needed to pass the exam. Reference books that cover Florida building codes and other regulations are allowed during the exam. 

The 3 parts of the exam are Project Management, Contract Administration, and Business and Finance.

1. Register: An online registration can be done wherein the exam date can be chosen as per convenience. The fee for the exam is payable by credit or debit card.
2. Send application form and fee: Once the general contractor exam is passed, the application form for the license can be sent with an additional fee for the license.
3. Mail the documents: Documents like bank statements, credit score reports, and proof of employment along with a completed exam, written application, and fee should be sent to the State of Florida, Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Once the application is processed, the proof of certification will be sent by mail.

3. Play the part

1. Keep proof of certification: A certification card with the license to work in Florida must be at hand when searching for employment. This certification must be present on the resume and in job applications.
2. Apply at construction companies: Look for openings for general contractors through construction companies or visit construction companies in person.
3. Renew the license before expiry: A general contractor needs to take 14 hours of continuing education courses to maintain the license. Thereafter, one must apply for renewal before the expiry date. 

That’s a lot of paperwork and errands! What if the clients could just focus on deciding what kind of license to go for and how to prepare for it? And the rest of the worries – the documentation, the processes, the renewal, and the policy changes… everything else could be taken care of by Contractors Reporting Services.

Why Choose Contractors Reporting Services?

With over fifty years of experience, the company has the needed qualifications and expertise to ensure that a client can attain and maintain a Florida contractor’s license.

The services include:

• Initial Applications (Certification & Registration)
• Additional Entities
• Transfer/Change of Status
• Reinstatement
• Registrations
• Financial Stability Review & Report
• Local License Registration & Renewals
• Workers Comp Exemption

 

For more information about acquiring a general contractor license or learning how to become a contractor, contact Contractors Reporting Services at (813) 932-5244.

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source https://activatemylicense.com/press-releases/who-is-a-general-contractor-and-how-to-become-one/

Working With No Florida Contractor’s License: Guide for Contractors and Clients

Contractors Reporting Services (CRS) realizes that not everyone requires services for a Florida contractor’s license to operate successfully in the area. However, experienced teams like CRS confirm that the Florida general contractor license requirements don’t need to be complicated. The company assists those wondering how to become a contractor or seeking an FL contractors’ license.

Why Locals Should Consider Hiring Contractors Reporting Services: Avoid Penalties for Working Without an FL Contractor License

Have there been missed opportunities to look into a specialist or general contractor’s license? Florida contractor’s license requirements are fairly straightforward, and the state enforces common penalties on a missing general contractor license. In Florida, it’s important to know about first-degree misdemeanor charges and the consequences of repeated offenses.

#1 Contracting Without a License in Florida is a First-Degree Misdemeanor

Working in the State of Florida without a general contractor license is risky. If convicted, the offense may qualify as a first-degree misdemeanor. The charge comes with a maximum sentence of one year of probation, one year in jail, or a $1,000 fine (excluding other fines imposed by the state for operating without a contractor’s license in Florida). 

If the state discovers a private individual working without a general contractor license, Florida authorities work hard to seek a conviction. For example, if someone claims to have permission but works without holding a valid general contractor license in Florida, payments received during that time may fall under the category of theft. A notable exception to this rule is work without compensation—if the contractor is not paid, they can legally assist with any project or construction.

Florida contractor license requirements change regularly based on the work details. For instance, a certain contractor may be legally qualified for one type of work but not another. Companies like CRS guide local contractors who feel unsure of the rules around a Florida contractor’s license (Florida regulations included).

#2 Repeat Offenses Count as Third-Degree Felonies

Repeated offenses are far more serious. There are steep fines and severe legal repercussions for individuals caught practicing without a general contractors’ license in Florida repeatedly. A judge may impose any combination of:

• Maximum $5,000 fine
• Maximum of five years in prison
• Maximum five-year probation

The conviction also counts as a Level 1 offense under Florida’s Criminal Punishment Code. It could require the offender to present court-ordered restitution for any loss experienced by clients. Although, this typically only happens when the contractor uses substandard or outdated materials to complete their work. 

Contractors should note that working unlicensed in Florida during a state of emergency carries the same charges as above, regardless of prior convictions. The regulations are strict for repeat offenses, and Florida contractors should avoid this scenario at any cost. Contractors Reporting Services can make the process of acquiring or renewing a license easy, so there’s no reason to default.

About Contractors Reporting Services (CRS)

Contractors Reporting Services (CRS) is a Florida-based company with over 50 years of experience navigating the nuances of licensing in Tampa, FL. The experts in charge at CRS provide counseling services in multiple contracting-related areas, such as incorporation, annual reporting, credit checks, and Florida contractors’ license requirements. Florida’s general contractor license requirements and procedures are constantly changing. CRS is available to assist with an application for a Florida contractor’s license at (813) 932-5244 or on Facebook. Alternatively, visit the offices Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM at 13795 N Nebraska Ave Tampa, FL 33613.

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Florida General Contractor License Requirements for Additional Business Entities

Contractors Reporting Services (CRS) is a Tampa, FL-based company with more than 50 years of experience assisting local businesses to navigate a general contractors’ license. Florida general contractor license requirements are far easier with the knowledgeable CRS team on board, including handling employment documents, building permits, taxes, incorporation, and more.

Florida General Contractor License Requirements—Five Steps to Add Additional Businesses

If there’s a need to add a business to an existing license, the process is simple. Follow these five easy steps to sail through the Tampa, Florida general contractor license requirements:

Step 1: Apply for Approval

An additional business requires submission of the State of Florida’s accompanying application for approval. It involves several pages of dense information, and an experienced service like CRS makes the process much quicker. A successful application is crucial to expanding the license to other business interests, and thorough preparation goes a long way.

Step 2: Pay Fees

Those looking to incorporate an additional business entity into their FL contractors’ license must also pay a fee to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. The application fee changes often, depending on the time of year or state regulations. 

Step 3: Submit Credit Reports

As part of the Florida contractors’ license application process, interested parties must submit multiple credit checks:

• One applicant credit check (including a FICO score)
• One credit check on the applicant’s currently qualified business
• One credit check on the applicant’s proposed business 

If the applicant’s FICO score is under 660, the Florida contractors’ license requirements state that extra information will be necessary. The applicant to the general contractors’ license in Florida must then obtain additional proof in the form of a credit line, an irrevocable letter, or a verified bond. 

Step 4: Record Fingerprints

Incorporating an additional business entity under an existing FL contractors’ license is simpler. The applicant must submit electronic fingerprints and go through a background check. A helpful electronic fingerprint live scan provider is available through Florida’s Department of Law Enforcement website. 

Step 5: Provide Proof of Insurance

Before final approval, the Florida contractor license requirements state that applicants must acquire proof of several types of insurance. It may include public liability insurance, property damage insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance. The board hearing and approving the application determine the required coverage minimum.

An existing general contractor license in Florida will have up to thirty days after approval to obtain workers’ compensation insurance. Applicants can also choose to file an exemption but must provide this proof within thirty days of approval.

About CRS

Like many Florida contractor license requirements, the process of adding a new business or entity to an existing FL contractor license might be tedious. However, the CRS team’s knowledge and experience are invaluable in acquiring a general contractor license. Florida is a great place to work with the right team, and the CRS service is proof that all businesses work better within a support network.

A license holder ready to incorporate an additional business entity or learn how to become a contractor only needs five easy steps to navigate the Florida general contractor license requirements. Contractors Reporting Services is available to answer calls at (813) 532-5244 or by email at info@activatemylicense.com. 

CRS works Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM from their offices at 13795 N Nebraska Ave Tampa, FL 33613.

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Top 5 Things to Consider Before Becoming a Contractor

Contractors Reporting Services has helped contractors manage their paperwork and Florida contractors’ license processes for over 50 years, allowing them to focus on what matters, their craft. Their services save contractors time and money, keeping permits, tax forms, and employment documents up to date to avoid costly delays or inquiries.

When thinking about making the change from full-time work to contract work, here are five things to consider before taking the plunge:

Five Things to Consider Before Making the Switch to Contract Work

The Right Mentality

Make sure to go into contract work for the right reasons and with the right mentality. Contract work is a great way to grow skills and obtain a better work/life balance but requires other sacrifices. Being a contractor still means being part of a team and entirely investing in whichever company holds a contract, no matter how short the term.

It is a switch that can take some getting used to, but with the proper help along the way, it can be rewarding and profitable. Companies like Contractors Reporting Services can make obtaining a Florida contractor’s license easier, as they take care of any paperwork needed once a contractor has set up shop.

Be Flexible

Flexibility is vital for a contractor. While they can often set their hours, they also may have to take on shorter contracts than they may like. Contract work expects just as much flexibility from an employer’s end as it offers on the contractor’s end. That is why the pay is often higher for contractors than full-time workers.

Financial Implications

A contractor’s salary often fluctuates from contract to contract depending on the nature of the work, the contract’s length, and any additional benefits or perks offered by the employer. How often a contractor receives a paycheck also depends on an employer. 

While some employers may offer weekly or bi-weekly pay, others may pay on a 60-day term, meaning the contractor will have to rely on savings until their next check. A variable pay schedule is something contractors need to consider in their yearly planning to make sure they have enough money in the case of longer periods between paychecks.

Benefits

Benefits work differently for a contractor than they do for full- or part-time employees. Often contractors have to pay for their own benefits out of pocket or go without retirement accounts and health insurance services. 

These costs can add up and have to be taken into account when switching to contract work. Always check with potential employers, as benefit packages for contractors are becoming increasingly popular and may be available.

Get Support

Contractors often encounter a lack of support without departmental staples such as HR and payroll. They also need to handle all the business administration, set up a limited company, and worry about all the little details that come with doing business. 

To alleviate these stresses, they can hire companies such as Contractors Reporting Services to take care of items like their general contractor license, renewals, annual reporting, credit reports, and more.

Need Help With Florida Contractor’s License Requirements in Tampa?

Contractors Reporting Services supports contractors in and around Tampa, Florida, by helping them with Florida contractor’s licensing requirements and other administrative functions. Located at 13795 N Nebraska Ave, Tampa, FL 33613, they can be reached by phone at (813) 932-5244 or by email at info@activatemylicense.com.

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Reinstating a General Contractor License in Florida

Contractors working in Florida need a general contractor license with the state to operate a business. Florida limits what construction services people can provide without a contractor’s license. Florida offers specific reinstatement guidelines to restore a license for those who had a general contractor’s license go null and void.

Applying for or reinstating a contractor’s license in Florida can be a complicated process. If you need a Florida contractor’s license, Contractors Reporting Services can help you navigate Florida contractor’s license requirements and quickly get you back to business.

Who Needs a General Contractor’s License in Florida?

If you’re a handyman whose business is limited to small repair jobs, you don’t need a FL contractor license. There has been a change to the previous handyman exemption to state licensing requirements. The provision in 489.103, Florida Statutes, formerly exempted projects totaling less than $1,000.  The exemption amount will be raised to $2,500.  The remaining stipulations, including that the work be of a casual, minor and inconsequential nature, remain in place.  That phrase is defined in Rule 61G4-12.011, Florida Administrative Code, and essentially means, when no permit is required.

Florida allows unlicensed handyman to do repair jobs like:

• Minor carpentry
• Carpet and flooring installation
• Painting
• Paneling
• Small appliance repair
• Wallpapering
• Yardwork

 

Florida requires anyone who does remodeling or structural work to be licensed and certified by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board. Florida offers several types of contractor’s licenses. For example, Florida contractor license requirements are different for general contractors than for swimming pool technicians, HVAC technicians, and plumbers.

Because the FL contractor’s license process is so complex, it helps to partner with a company like Contractors Reporting Services to ensure that you successfully meet the Florida general contractor license requirements.

How to Become a Contractor

If you’ve never held a general contractor’s license in Florida, the state requires you to complete a four-year training program or prove that you’ve had at least four years of work experience. The state also requires that you must:

• Be 18 years or older and have a valid Social Security number
• Submit credit reports to show financial stability
• Show proof of insurance with at least $300,000 in coverage for liabilities
• Pass the Florida Exam for Contractors, which tests knowledge of safety, construction, and finances

After meeting the requirements, you can apply for your general contractor license in Florida.

How to Get a Florida Contractor’s License Reinstated

You need to renew your general contractor license in Florida every two years. If you fail to renew your contractor’s license in Florida for two consecutive cycles, it will be null and void. In most cases, to reinstate it, the state requires that you go through the licensure process and retake the Florida Exam for Contractors.

If you can prove that you weren’t able to renew your contractor’s license due to illness or financial hardship, Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation has the authority to reinstate the license. If it reinstates your license, you can keep your former license number. If it doesn’t, you’ll get a new license number after you reapply.

Skip the Red Tape with Contractors Reporting Services

Contractors Reporting Services in Tampa has helped hundreds of satisfied customers resolve Florida contractor’s license issues. Established in 1965, Contractors Reporting Services, located at 13795 N Nebraska Ave, Tampa, FL 33613, are experts in navigating Florida general contractor license requirements.

If you need assistance applying for your first general contractor license in Florida or need help reinstating a null and void contractor’s license, contact Contractors Reporting Services at 1-800-487-2084 or online.

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5 Services You Can Offer Once You Meet Florida’s Contractor License Requirements

5 Services You Can Offer Once You Meet Florida’s Contractor License Requirements

Contractor licenses are required by law in every state for larger projects to protect property owners and prove that contractors are qualified to perform certain tasks. A contractor license also allows access to a state’s dispute resolution program to resolve disputes.

There are many projects that you can provide as a handyman or repair person without a license. However, a contractor’s license obtained by the Florida Construction Licensing Board is required to tackle larger projects. It is illegal to provide structural, electrical, plumbing, excavation work, and more without one.

Florida Contractor’s License Requirements

You must meet Florida contractor license requirements before a licensing board can award you a license. Different jobs require different licenses, and specific jobs don’t require one at all.

Do I Need a Contractor’s License for My Job?

It’s often hard to tell what projects require a contractor license and which ones do not. First, let’s look at a few jobs that don’t need one.

Projects That Don’t Require a Florida Contractor’s License

While the following project examples don’t require a contractor’s license, it is essential to check with your city and local government offices to make sure permits aren’t needed.

Some jobs that don’t require a license include:

• Window treatments (not installations)
• Wallpapering
• Painting
• Flooring
• Countertops and cabinets
• Above ground pools
• Paneling
• Yard Work
• Small appliance repair
• Minor carpentry work
• Detached tool sheds less than 250 square feet

You still need to be registered in the area you wish to work in, but no additional licensing is required.

5 Jobs That Require a Florida Contractor License

Almost all major projects require a license, but the size of the job isn’t always an accurate indicator. Here are some examples of common jobs that do require one:

1. Inground Swimming Pools:

One of Florida’s most licensed projects, swimming pools, require licenses for their excavation, decking, piping, finishing, layout, design, and installation.

1. HVAC Units

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning installation requires a lot of work both inside and outside the home. It also needs to be appropriately licensed.

1. Lanais

A Floridian staple, a home without a lanai, decreases drastically in value. A lanai and any other structural project, including demolition and foundation work, will require a license to be done on the property.

1. Carports

While not always attached to a home, carports still fall under structural regulations and need to be correctly licensed. Additional licenses are required if you wish to install solar panels on a carport roof or a home’s roofing. Not just solar panels, but all electrical work requires a license to perform.

1. Dishwashers and Plumbing

One of the most popular projects, including plumbing work, is dishwasher installation. Of course, any plumbing project requires a license to complete legally.

To obtain a Florida contractor license, you must have at least four years of experience in the category for the license you’re trying to get. A financial stability check is also needed, as well as passing the Florida Contractor Exam.

Need Help Obtaining a Contractor’s License in Florida?

Whether looking to obtain a new license, license reinstatement, or license transfer, there is a lot of paperwork involved. Often it helps to have a professional to help you navigate the waters of local government and expedite the process. Obtaining a license with help can be quick and easy, allowing you to focus more on the actual work and less on paperwork.

Contractors Reporting Services is your one-stop-shop for help obtaining a Florida contractor’s license in Tampa, FL 33613. Call (813) 932-5244 or email info@activatemylicense.com for help starting your next big project.

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The post 5 Services You Can Offer Once You Meet Florida’s Contractor License Requirements appeared first on Contractors Reporting Services.