Protect yourself from unlicensed contractors

Facebook decided to just delete my original scoop Facebook page, after it was hacked.  Like my new page so that you can continue to get the news and scoop, by clicking — >> here

 

 

 

Protect yourself from unlicensed contractors

Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC

 

CITY OF NORTH PORT, FL – The City of North Port Building Division and the North Port Police Department are working to reduce the number of residents and property owners impacted from unlicensed contractors following Hurricane Ian. Contractors from other states are not allowed to pull permits without being registered in Florida. If the contractor is unregistered, they are also not allowed to pull permits.

The City urges consumers to follow these tips before hiring anyone to work on their property:

• Only hire licensed contractors and ask to see their license. Verify the license at www.myfloridalicense.com or call 850-487-1395. Licensed contractors are required by law to include their license number in all advertising. An occupational or business license is not sufficient in the construction trades.
• If the project is for repairing damage, check with your insurance company before you sign a contractor to verify that your insurance will cover the repairs.
• Obtain at least three written bids, check references, and get a written contract.

• Beware of contractors who claim to be the cheapest, solicit door-to-door, or give a post office box instead of a street address.
• Avoid any contractor who tries to convince you to personally obtain building permits or those building permits are not necessary for the project.

• Beware of alleged contractors who ask to be paid in cash or ask for large payments up front. Avoid paying cash or full payment in advance. Don’t pay more than 10 percent as a down payment. Once you’re happy with the quote, get job details, costs, and payment schedule in writing before signing the final contract.
• Avoid signing anything stating your insurance benefits will be paid directly to the contractor.

Perhaps the largest risk homeowners face is when they knowingly hire an unlicensed contractor. It is illegal. Aside from the inability to sue the contractor or receive recovery funds should there be a breach of contract, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation can stop construction and impose a $5,000 fine to the homeowner. Additionally, homeowners may be liable to pay unpaid subcontractors and any potential on-the-job injuries. Unlicensed contractors do not have insurance coverage. Any injury that occurs on your property will be a claim against your insurance.

  

Take the time to find a licensed and trustworthy contractor. Use a licensed contractor. If you have any questions, you may contact the North Port Building Division at 941-429-7044.

 

The North Port Police Department takes these types of crimes against our residents seriously. We will hold anyone scamming our community accountable. If you feel you have become the victim of contractor crime, please contact us at 941-429-7300.

 

MORE INFORMATION 

For the latest City updates and information on the City’s response and recovery, visit NorthPortFL.gov/Alerts and follow the City of North Port’s verified accounts on Facebook and Twitter.