How to Find the Best General Contractor for the Job in Florida

Before starting work on a renovation, extension, or building project in Florida, someone with a valid general contractor’s license will need to oversee the project and hiring the right person will be the

first thing that needs to be done. This is one of the most important steps and shouldn’t be rushed. The individual should have the right credentials, they need to have a valid license, and they should also have the right experience to be able to complete the job successfully. Once the general contractor for the project has been hired, they will then be able to hire the relevant sub-contractors, including plumbers, carpenters, and electricians.

There are two main checks that should be done before hiring a general contractor:

1. Check That the General Contractor’s License is Valid

In Florida, the regulation of general contractors is overseen by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), and they have all the licensed contractors listed online on MyFloridaLicense.com. It is possible to search by Licensee Name, Licensee Number, by City or County, or by License Type. Simply navigate to the website, type in the details, and search. For a more general search, the best option is to search by city to receive a list of licensed contractors.

Check the Details of the License

The results will show the type of license, the license number, and the status. Pay particular attention to the status – it should be Current, Active (not Revoked, Null and Void or Suspended). By clicking on any of the results, it is then possible to see the contact details – check those against those that the contractor has provided you with, as well as the license information including the licensure date (when the license was first granted) and the date of when the license expires.

Check That There are No Complaints Against the General Contractor

At the bottom of each listing, there is a link to view any complaints that have been filed against the general contractor. Have a look to check that everything is in order, and there are no outstanding or unresolved issues.

2. Ensure That the Contractor Has a Good Track Record

The best way to ensure that a general contractor with a valid license will be a good fit for your job is, after verifying their credentials, to look at previous work and talk to past employers. People who have worked with the contractor in the past will be able to verify that they:

• Completed the work to specifications and within budget – it is a good sign if the general contractor can complete work as required and that the project isn’t likely to run over budget.
• Conducted themselves professionally and stuck to timelines – having regular feedback and milestone completion can help to keep the project moving along according to schedule.
• Hired sub-contractors who were proficient and licensed – hiring quality subcontractors can make the difference between a project that is a success, and one that doesn’t have a good outcome.
• Have the relevant experience to complete the job - it’s helpful if the general contractor has successfully completed jobs that are similar to the new project as it increases the chances that the new project will go well.

The final check is to ask whether the previous employer would recommend the contractor and why. There may be considerations on the current project that have not yet been envisioned, and a previous employer may bring something to light that will have implications for the new project.

Contractors Reporting Services has been helping contractors with their general licenses in Tampa, Florida for many years and their team has the relevant experience to help you stay up to date with licensing requirements, whether you need help with the application or renewal process

The next info was first published on How to Find the Best General Contractor for the Job in Florida and is republished from Contractors Reporting Services. Find more on:} Contractors Reporting Services Blog

Paperwork that a Florida General Contractor Needs to Have in Order

To perform general contracting work in Florida, you need to hold a contractor’s license. There are two options: to be licensed throughout the whole state or to work only locally in your jurisdiction. Both licenses are processed by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board. The board operates under the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). So, in order to hold a valid general contractor license in Florida, the contractor will need to adhere to the requirements set out by these agencies.

General Contractor License Types in Florida

There are two types of licenses that you can apply for that both fall under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation in order to operate as a general contractor.

1. Certified License

A certified general contractors license is valid throughout the state of Florida, permitting the license holder to work anywhere in the state.

2. Registered License

This license is more limited as the contractor is only permitted to work within specified local jurisdictions. To qualify for a registered license, the holder will need to have been issued a certificate of competency by that jurisdiction.

There are also various, more specific contractor licenses that fall under these classifications. In particular, a general contractor may wish to apply for the following additional licenses:

• Building Contractor – this license is for construction work that includes the repair, remodeling, and improvement of commercial and residential buildings that are more than three stories in height.
• Residential Contractor – this license allows for the construction as well as repair, remodeling, and improvement of homes for between one and three families, lower than two stories.

License Requirements for the Contracting Company

Once you have a valid general contractor license, it is important to establish a company. Establishing a contracting company will usually need to be done either as an LLC or an S-Corporation, depending on the specific requirements of the business. Here, a company such as Contractors Reporting Services can assist with advice on what processes need to be followed and how to file papers correctly. All corporations and LLCs (as well as non-profits and partnerships) have to be registered through the Florida Division of Corporations.

As a business operating in Florida, the general contractor will need to register for tax identification numbers as well as licenses and permits. This includes income tax withholding, sales, and use tax as well as unemployment insurance tax. It’s advisable to speak with a qualified person to ensure that all relevant licenses and documents are in order.

Workers Compensation and Exemption

General contractors need to carry Worker’s Compensation Insurance for their employees through either the Florida Worker’s Compensation Insurance System, a commercial carrier or on a self-insured basis. This is to protect employees from lost wages, medical bills, and other possible unexpected expenses that can arise as a result of an injury on the job.

It is also possible to apply for an exemption if you are an officer of a corporation. To apply for the exemption is a straightforward process – the exemption applicant simply needs to complete and submit a Notice of Election to be Exempt application online. This can be done on the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation website.

For a general contractor, the licensing and permit requirements for a construction business can quickly become time-consuming and overwhelming. This is why many general contractors in Florida choose to work with Contractors Reporting Services in Tampa, Florida. Contractors trust them to take care of the paperwork and smaller details so that they are freed up to focus on building their business and looking after their clients.

The following post was originally published on Paperwork that a Florida General Contractor Needs to Have in Order and is courtesy of Contractors Reporting Services. Read more on:} http://activatemylicense.com

The Role and Requirements for a General Contractor in Tampa, Florida

Many homeowners in Florida are comfortable with hiring a handyman or specialist for specific home-related jobs. This would include smaller tasks such as replacing a toilet, laying new flooring or installing a generator. Yet, for bigger jobs, such as a kitchen remodel, the work quickly becomes significantly more complicated. In projects such as this, several specialists are hired to complete the different parts of the job. However, most jobs build on one another and therefore must be scheduled in a particular order. It is the responsibility of the general contractor in Florida, to schedule each specialist in the correct order and to ensure that all jobs are completed with ease and success. Each subcontractor, from the plumber, to the flooring specialist, to the person fitting the cupboards, needs to be managed and coordinated correctly.

 

The Role of a General Contractor

This is where the skills of a general contractor come to the forefront. It is their responsibility to assess the full scope of the project from the very initial meeting with the homeowner. The GC is responsible for devising the project plan to ensure its successful completion within the estimated timeframe and budget.

General contractors also serve as the primary point of contact for all subcontractors and the client. To manage this successfully, you will need to have a good understanding of all aspects of home remodeling and be able to answer any questions that the homeowner has. This includes insights into the specific types of needed building materials and the skill level and number of workers that will be required for the job. You will also need to manage the client’s expectations by providing a realistic timeline for completion as well as pulling the necessary building permits. This will ensure the project is completed safely and within specifications.

Why Up-to-Date Paperwork and a Contract is So Important for a General Contractor

A contract is a binding legal agreement guaranteeing a service between two (or more) people. As a general contractor, when you sign a contract, you agree to fulfil the demands of that contract. In the case of a home re-model, as the general contractor, you are in-charge of the construction site. You should use the contract, that both you and the client have agreed to, as a blueprint or reference for all aspects of the job.

The goal is to meet the terms of the contract and ensure that the client is satisfied with your work. In the event of a dispute with the client, having a robust contract in place will govern the specifics and hopefully clarify any discrepancies over what was agreed upon.

Nevertheless, the contract will only be valid if your paperwork is up-to-date. This may mean pulling the relevant permits and filing for licenses, renewals and annual reports yourself. Many general contractors in Florida choose to work with Contractors Reporting Services to manage their paperwork needs. We work hard to ensure that all documents are current and in place, so that you can focus on running the day-to-day operations of your business.

Ultimately, as a general contractor in Tampa, Florida it is your job to oversee the daily operations of a project as well as operating as the point of contact for all parties. Your overarching goal is to complete the project according to the specifications of the signed contract while ensuring that all necessary paperwork is in order. This will guarantee that the contract is valid and will safeguard your business in the event of a dispute.

The next post was originally published to The Role and Requirements for a General Contractor in Tampa, Florida and is courtesy of Contractors Reporting Services. Find more on:} Contractors Reporting Services

The Best Way to Win the Job as a General Contractor in Florida

Your job as a general contractor in Florida is to simplify the construction or remodeling process for the homeowner. In many cases, homeowners have had a bad experience or have heard horror stories by a friend who’s had a remodeling project go badly. This is usually due to an unreliable general contractor. Therefore, the best way to win a job is to build the customer’s confidence in your business. They are more likely to choose your services if you answer their questions, ensure your paperwork is in order, share good references, offer a written estimate and set up clear terms of payment.

 

1. Answer All Their Questions Quickly and Efficiently

The way that you conduct yourself in your dealings with the client, gives them a good idea of what they can expect for the rest of the project. Prior to the homeowner signing with you, ensure that you answer all their questions as fully and as quickly as possible. This will allow the client to see how you will conduct yourself as their advocate once the contract has been signed.

Answer all questions thoroughly and make it easy for them to understand. Homeowners want to be confident that they comprehend the implications for the project. For example, they want to know their expected cost and the estimated timeline for the project. Be as transparent about the whole process as possible, so that your client feels comfortable moving forward with you at the reins.

2. Ensure That All Your Paperwork is in Order

A homeowner or building owner, especially for larger projects, will do their due diligence researching your company. Therefore, it is essential that you have all your paperwork in order. This means ensuring that you are up to date with all licensing and insurance requirements. This can be managed yourself or outsourced to experts such as Contractors Reporting Services. The necessary documents include:

· Local license registration and renewals

· Workers compensation exemptions

· Workers compensation coverage

· Financial stability reviews

· Corporation set-up and amendments

· Annual reports

· Business tax registrations and renewals

3. Share Your Best References

Your client is trusting, when they sign a contract with you, that it is going to be a stress-free experience. You can move them closer to signing by supplying written and telephonic references if necessary. By being pro-active in this part of the process you gain more control over who the client listens to, as well as reinforcing why your business would be the best choice. Draw up a list of good references in advance and share contacts who are relevant when asked. Relevant contacts would be the satisfied clients for whom you have completed similar work in the past.

4. Be Willing to Offer Estimates in Writing

Offer a free estimate in writing and provide it to the client as soon as possible. Be sure to include as much detail as you can, so that when the client is comparing quotes from different contractors, they can make direct comparisons for like services. Here you should include a list of products to be used (be specific including product names and part numbers for premium products), the services that are included and the cost of labor. You should also be upfront about the project’s timeline and any milestones.

5. Set Up Clear, Fair Payment Terms

When setting up the terms of the contract, one way you can grow the client’s trust is to clearly and systematically detail how and when they will need to pay. Typically, at the start, you would request a percentage be put down by the customer and then payments would be released in increments as the milestones are completed. A sign of a reputable contractor is being willing to work until the job is complete prior to requesting the final payment.

By following these five best practices, as a licensed general contractor in Florida, you give yourself the best chance of being chosen as the winning bid for a contract.

The following post was first published on The Best Way to Win the Job as a General Contractor in Florida and is courtesy of Contractors Reporting Services. Read more on:} Contractors Reporting Services

5 Ways to Outsource Your Paperwork as a General Contractor in Florida

Contractors Reporting Services in Tampa, FL leads the way in helping general contractors run their construction business. From assisting with Florida contractor’s license requirements and sharing insight into how to become a contractor, they offer an end-to-end service for general contractors.

As a licensed general contractor you have more than enough to deal with on a daily basis without the additional stress and headaches of paperwork. While you understand the importance of filling the annual reports with the Secretary of State and keeping your workers’ compensation exemption renewed, it can be difficult to fit these tasks into an already packed day.

Application Service for Your Florida General Contractor License

Once you have passed your State exam in Florida, you will need to provide specific application information for that trade. You can use an Initial Application service to help you obtain your general contractor license quickly and efficiently to avoid any delay.

Financial Stability Reviews and Reporting

These reviews and reports include checking public records at the County, State, and Federal levels. Both the State as well as the relevant local County or City municipalities will approve these reports. They will be completed by Contractors Reporting Services within twenty-four hours of receiving the information.

Corporation or LLC (Limited Liability Corporation) Formation

This does not need to be an expensive undertaking. In stark contrast to other overpriced websites, Contractors Reporting Services offers an affordable solution. Friendly, professional staff offers a customized solution and the personal attention that you need. We’ll answer all your questions and deliver the right  solution for your business, setting you up as either a C-Corporation or S-Corporation.

Registration and Renewal of Licenses

It can be difficult to keep track of when and how to renew State and Country licenses. In order for a general contractor to remain in compliance with State Statuettes and Local Codes, an outsourced service is invaluable.

Additional Entities

We can assist If you hold a general contractors license for one company and wish to qualify a second, or in the instance where you hold multiple licenses and wish to qualify a separate company with any of your licenses. This has to be applied for under Additional Business Guidelines which can be frustrating and confusing to navigate.

Filing of Annual Reports

It is a requirement that construction companies file annual reports each year to renew or maintain their active status. Failure to file reports accurately or on-time for a Corporation or an LLC will result in a penalty of $400 that cannot be waived.

A Specialised In-House Construction Accounting Service

We have an in-house accountant available who offers a free review of your current accounting and tax returns. The purpose is to identify areas where you can save money in taxes. Our team also offers a free QuickBooks class on how to operate and better understand QuickBooks and use it for your business.

Running a business as with a general contractor license is stressful. There are always fires that need to be put out as well as logistical, structural issues, scheduling problems - more than enough to keep you busy. At Contractors Reporting Services in Tampa, FL, we’ve been helping businesses in the construction industry take care of the paperwork along with licensing and approval processes for more than 50 years.

Join hundreds of other satisfied customers by letting us assist with procedures and approval processes for your business. And let us deal with the various government organizations and changing requirements. This will ensure that you’re always up-to-date so that there is no risk of delays or annoying inquiries.

The next post was first seen on 5 Ways to Outsource Your Paperwork as a General Contractor in Florida and is courtesy of Contractors Reporting Services. See more on:} Contractors Reporting Services LLC

The Top 6 Worker’s Compensation Insurance FAQs for General Contractors in Florida

As a general contractor in Florida, you need to understand how worker’s compensation works to ensure that your business and employees are covered. To help general contractors understand the basics, we’ve answered the top 6 questions frequently asked by our clients.

Who needs workers’ compensation coverage?

Workers’ compensation coverage is needed for all construction employers who have one or more employees (including any non-exempt business owners). And, for non-construction employers, four or more employees (which also includes any non-exempt business owners).

Trades that are considered to be in the construction industry can be viewed in Florida’s Administrative Code.

Do I need worker’s compensation insurance if I hire sub-contractors?

Sub-contractors are responsible for their own insurance that will cover workers in the event of a work-related incident. But it is the responsibility of the primary contractors to ensure that the sub-contractor has coverage for its workers. The contractor is responsible for the payment of benefits if a worker is injured without being protected by insurance.

What proof does a contractor need from a sub-contractor to verify insurance coverage?

For a sub-contractor that has a workers’ compensation insurance policy, before beginning a job the contractor must obtain any of the following:

• A copy of the ‘information page’ from the insurance policy
• A screen print from the proof of coverage database confirming that coverage is in effect
• A Certificate of Liability Insurance along with documentation from either the producer or carrier confirming that workers' compensation coverage is valid

For a sub-contractor that is a client company of an employee leasing company, the contractor needs to obtain:

• A Certificate of Liability Insurance
• A list of the employees leased to the subcontractor for the date that the subcontractor commences work for the contractor

For a sub-contractor that has an exemption for the business owner or owners, the contractor needs either:

• A copy of the exemption
• A screen print of the exemption page from the Proof of Coverage database.

What is the Cost of Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

There are 3 factors that influence the cost of insurance: the type of work being performed by employees, the employer’s claims history and the payroll for the business. There are some discounts that may be made available such as a discount for a workplace safety program (2%) and a drug-free workplace program (5%). These programs need to be renewed on an annual basis in order to qualify for the discount.

What is a Worker’s Compensation Exemption?

An exemption can be filed for an officer of a corporation or member of a limited liability company. The purpose is to be excluded from the workers' compensation laws. The office or member will not be classified as an employee and cannot claim workers’ compensation benefits once they have been issued a Certificate of Election to be Exempt.

How Do You Apply for an Exemption?

To apply for, or renew an exemption from workers' compensation law, the applicant needs to complete and submit a Notice of Election to be Exempt application. If the applicant is eligible, this can be done online. It is important to note that the application needs to be personally signed by the applicant attesting that they have reviewed, understood, and acknowledged the information included on the application.  It may be considered a felony of the third degree if anyone other than the applicant signs the application.

If you need help with applying for a workers’ compensation exemption or need some assistance with additional general contracting questions, please get in touch with us. Contractors Reporting Services in Tampa, Florida offers reliable results building on reputation and experience of over 50 years in business. We understand that general contractors have a vast range of paperwork that needs to be done from financial reports, licensing or business services, and we’re confident that we can help you tackle them.

The following info was first published on The Top 6 Worker’s Compensation Insurance FAQs for General Contractors in Florida and is courtesy of Contractors Reporting Services. Find more on:} http://activatemylicense.com

How to Know Whether an LLC or a Corp is the Best Fit for Your Construction Business

There are a number of factors that should be considered when deciding whether to set up your business as a corporate or limited liability company (LLC). This includes the type of work that you do, the number of employees that you have, as well as various tax considerations.

Deciding to formalize the structure of your company as an LLC or corporation has important implications and should only be undertaken when you have a clear understanding of the pros and cons of each. Once you have a general contractor license, and before filing papers, consider getting expert advice to ensure that you make the right decision for your business.

Choosing a Corporation vs. LLC

An LLC (limited liability company) is a hybrid form of partnership that offers many of the advantages of a corporation and a partnership. Profits and losses can be passed through to owners without the business being taxed, and owners are shielded from personal liability.

A corporation can be taxed, held legally liable for its actions and can make a profit. The main benefit of a corporation is the protection from legal liability while two key disadvantages are the costs to incorporate and the extensive paperwork that needs to be filed. An S-corporation (Subchapter corporation) helps avoid double taxation which is a drawback for regular C corporations.

Business Freedom

We find that, for most construction businesses an LLC is the best fit because, while both a corporation and an LLC offer protection for the owner from liability, an LLC offers more freedom in how the business is managed. An example of this is in an LLC’s operating agreement; the company owners can expressly outline the obligations, powers, and rights of the manager and the LLC’s members. These rights, powers, and obligations can also be directly limited if needed.

An LLC also requires fewer formalities than those associated with a corporation. Specifically, annual meetings are not required.

Get Professional Advice and Assistance

If you want to set up an LLC, Contractors Reporting Services in Tampa FL can help. They’ll take out the stress, giving you the space to focus on building your business. Their professional, experienced staff have the expertise you need to get your paperwork handled efficiently. They will help you set up an S-Corporation or an LLC, whichever is the best fit for your needs.

They are also available to assist with ancillary services related to incorporating or setting up an LLC such as:

• Corporation Amendments – if any changes are made to the corporation such as changing officers or directors, they need to be registered and recorded the Secretary of State in Florida. Their team will provide fast, stress-free amendment filing so that you can focus on running your business.
• Annual Reports – annual reports are required to be filed every year in order for a Corporation or LLC to maintain their ‘active status.’ Failure to file annual reports can have serious implications, not least of which is a non-negotiable penalty of $400 for late filing which cannot be waived. Additional reinstatement fees and penalties can mean that costs to get your business on solid footing will exceed $900.
• Annual Minutes – When any changes are made to the structure of the corporation (such as amendments, changes of officers, and stock purchases or sales) the business is required to record them either in special minutes or under the annual minutes of the corporation.

Whether you decide on an LLC or a corporation, provided that they are formed and managed correctly, both will protect the business owner’s personal assets. This means that in the event of a claim or lawsuit filed against the business, only the assets that are owned by the LLC or corporation can be attached. If you have any questions, Contractors Reporting Services would like to be of assistance.

 

The following information was originally published on How to Know Whether an LLC or a Corp is the Best Fit for Your Construction Business and is courtesy of Contractors Reporting Services. Read more on:} Contractors Reporting Services Blog Tampa