Importance of Following Lien Law and Filing the Notice Commencement

Within the construction industry in Florida, deadlines and time frames are strongly enforced which means that general contractors need to have their paperwork in order. It’s also important for keeping the project on track, for example knowing the start date of a project is important, but how does one know the exact date? It’s available in the Notice of Commencement.

 

What is the Notice of Commencement?

The notice of commitment, also known as the “Affidavit of Commencement” or the “Notice of Project Commencement” is an official document that declares the starting date of a construction project. It’s the same day that the contractor, subcontractor, or support can start providing labor and materials for the project.

 

The NOC is thus an announcement that a project has started. It also contains information that is useful for different stakeholders at various stages of the project.

An NOC will usually contain:

• The property owner’s name and address
• A description of the property and the full address
• A brief description of the work that is to be done
• The general contractor’s name, address and contact information
• The contractor’s surety information
• The lender’s information
• Details of the property owner’s legal representatives
• The expiration date of the Notice
• The property owners’ signatures (helpful if payment issues arise)

 

For general contractors in Florida, this information, as well as the signatures from the property owners, is very important. The information can be used if payment issues arise. Additionally, pre-lien notices (such as the Notice to Owner and the mechanic's liens) will rely on this information. It is therefore recommended that general contractors, as well as subcontractors and suppliers, take note of the information provided in the Notice of Commencement.

 

Who files the Notice of Commencement?

The NOC is typically filed by the property owner, and in some cases, the general contractor. It is served just before or just after work is carried out on a project. It must be officially recorded at the local state office where the project is based, in Florida.

 

It must be signed by the property owner, and their legal name must be stated on the NOC. That person will also be required to sign the document. In situations where there are multiple numbers, for full compliance, it is recommended that all property owners provide their signatures.

 

Why is a Notice of Commencement Filed?

The lien laws in Florida explicitly require the property owner or the general contractor to file a notice of commencement. And in Florida, the Notice of Commencement is the starting point for the mechanic's lien process. The information found on the NOC will be used to fill pre-lien notices by participants on the project because a Notice to Owner is a legal requirement in Florida.

 

The NOC also allows a general contractor in Florida (as well as subcontractors and suppliers) to schedule the filing of other important documentation. For example, the preliminary notice needs to be sent within the first 15 days of the project, and that 15-day count begins on the date recorded in the notice.

 

Are There Consequences if An NOC is Not Filed?

In Florida, the general contractor will not be able to secure a building permit unless they are able to produce a correctly filed NOC. It may also lead to double payment for the property owner if the contractor leaves before paying subcontractors and suppliers because, without an NOC, the property owner will have violated Florida’s rulings on mechanics liens. This will then make them responsible for all payments to stakeholders even if the contractor has been paid in full. 

Contractors Reporting Services in Tampa, FL, understands the importance of filing all required paperwork correctly and on-time. They help general contractors and other construction stakeholders ensure that all the documentation for a project is in order to ensure that their clients can focus on the project, rather than papers.

The next information was first published on Importance of Following Lien Law and Filing the Notice Commencement and is republished from Contractors Reporting Services. Read more on:} http://activatemylicense.com

Answering Questions for Prospective Vocational Rehabilitation Vendors

Vocational Rehabilitation (or VR) is a federal-state program. The program aims to help people with physical or mental disabilities to find and hold down a job. VR is focused on helping people with disabilities establish meaningful careers.

For individuals to become eligible for VR services, they must:

• Have a physical, mental, emotional or learning disability that is a barrier to gainful employment
• Need VR to help prepare the individual to gain or keep employment
• Be able to benefit from the VR services

 

What is a Vocational Rehabilitation Vendor?

Vocational Rehabilitation vendors are individuals or business that makes their services available to VR customers that will help contribute to the goal of employment. This includes services such as medical services, opportunities for training, and specialized equipment. Vocational Rehabilitation will register all vendors from whom services are purchased for VR customers. 

 

What are the Different Types of Services That Vocational Rehabilitation Offers?

As per their website, Vocational Rehabilitation offers:

• Medical and Psychological Assessment – to determine what the client needs in terms of medical and psychological support
• Vocational Evaluation and Planning – to determine what the client is capable of, and take steps to meet that potential
• Career Counselling and Guidance – here, vocational counselors will talk with VR clients to determine skills and interests and define work goals.
• Training and Education After High School – this can include programs and classes that teach specific job skills, 
• On-the-Job Training – including vocational training, clients, receive the skills they need to pursue a specific career
• Supported Employment Services – such as a job coach to help the client manage the requirements of their position
• Assistive Technology and Devices – special devices and accommodations will be provided to do the job. This includes enlarged print, TDD or raised desks for a wheelchair. 

 

What Kind of Remuneration Can Vendors Expect to Receive?

For healthcare-related services, Vocational Rehabilitation follows the amount payable as outlined by the Medicare Part B system. Per diem payment for hospitals are paid according to the amount payable under the Medicaid system. For all other services, the VR sets its highest allowable fee such that the fee is not too low to deny individuals the right to make an informed choice for themselves. 

 

How Can Businesses and Individuals Register as VR Vendors?

Vendor registrations is a 3-step process:

• The prospective vendor must register with MyFloridaMarketPlace (MFMP),
• They must then submit an electronic W-9 with the Department of Financial Services (DFS), 
• Lastly, they must register with VR

 

Do All Vendors Undergo Background Screening?

All individuals who provide direct services to VR customers are required to register with the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse (CLH). Here they will need to submit to and pass level 2 background screening.

 

Once the application to provide VR services is approved, the vendor will be sent an email with the instructions for background screening. This is done via email and will assist with the fingerprint registration process.

 

What are the Next Steps After the Application Has Been Submitted?

If all three steps have been completed, the processing time is around ten business days. This does not include the time taken for background screening. 

 

To check your application status, allow ten business days before enquiring, after which time an email can be sent to verify the status. Once the application has been processed, a registration determination will be made (either Approved, Denied, or Incomplete), and the prospective vendor will be notified of their status.

Contractors Reporting Services in Tampa, FL, helps clients to register and get approval as Vocational Rehabilitation Vendors. Their experience in working with the program ensures that they can efficiently and effectively process their clients’ applications, giving their clients the best chance of being approved.

The following article was first seen on Answering Questions for Prospective Vocational Rehabilitation Vendors and is courtesy of Contractors Reporting Services. Find more on:} http://activatemylicense.com

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