Tag Archive for florida contractor help

What To Consider In Obtaining A Home Inspector License

Posted on March 24, 2023 by

A home inspector is responsible for assessing the condition of a structure or building. He or she can identify any issues that need to be corrected. Although you have the necessary training and license to do this job, what sets you apart from other inspectors?

In this article, we will talk about some of the factors that people look for when choosing a home inspector. Having a good reputation can help you attract more clients and increase the number of people who are interested in your services.

  • Like stated before, reputation is key. People will ask friends and family for recommendations for inspectors.
  • Your track record. People will read up on your experience, years in the business, and the numbers of inspections you’ve performed.
  • People tend to look for a person with a broad knowledge of a home’s systems and structure, not just someone who just specializes in one category.
  • People will check with the state to verify your license or to see if there have been any complaints about you put on record.
  • They will be looking for an inspector who carries insurance.
  • People want an inspector who will deliver a full and completed report with plenty of time to review it.
  • People look for objective inspectors with no connection to a realtor.
  • Price matters. People are willing to pay more for a better qualified inspector, since inspections are so crucial and important.
  • Many people would like to see a sample report.
  • People will read reviews about you online.
  • People do care about the time It takes you to do the inspection. Anything under two hours may seem suspicious to them, because that shows your work isn’t very thorough.
  • People want you to be very upfront with them. Let them know what you will be inspecting.
  • People will want to attend the inspection. Saying “No” is seen by many as a red flag.
  • Plan on being interviewed by the family, person, or business who is thinking about hiring you.

Haven’t gotten your home inspector license yet? Well, we can help with you that process. The process can be tricky with lots of things to gather and write up properly, but we have years of experience helping people get their home inspector’s license in Florida. To learn more or to get help getting your license, click here or call 239-777-1028.

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In The Know: Don’t Forget About Business Insurance

Posted on March 17, 2023 by

It’s very important for contractors to ensure that their workers’ compensation and general liability insurance policies are up-to- date. However, most new licensees and veteran contractors fail to realize that the State’s insurance requirements for active licensees are always in effect regardless of whether they are currently engaged in projects.

Since there are so many requirements and forms to follow when it comes to operating as a licensed contractor, it can be easy for new applicants to overlook the insurance requirements. A 30-day grace period is provided for new licensees to obtain either an exemption or a worker’s comp insurance policy.

The minimum coverage requirements for general liability insurance are now in effect. Even if you don’t expect to start working immediately, it’s important that you have the proper coverage to avoid potential penalties and fines.

Another common mistake that contractors make is not following the proper steps to either activate their license or relocate to a new location. They may have stopped working and then moved to a different company, but they didn’t take the necessary steps to either inactivate or relocate. If they fail to do so, their license will still remain active until they voluntarily put it into inactive status. This means that they are still legally obligated to carry out their duties.

Although contractors are aware that they have to carry out permits, they should still ensure that they have the proper insurance coverage to avoid getting fined or penalized. If their license won’t be used for a long time, they should place it in inactive status.

If you have any questions about minimum requirements, worker’s compensation exemptions, or if you need an insurance referral, contact the team at Licenses, Etc. by clicking here or call 239-777-1028.

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Chemical Spills Can Cripple a Job Site

Posted on March 3, 2023 by

Even though construction sites have the proper equipment and procedures in place to prevent chemical spills, they still can be prone to accidents. Having a good response plan is very important to minimize the damage caused by these types of spills.  As a contractor, it is your responsibility to ensure all safety measures are taken into consideration.

Delaying the containment of chemical spills can have a negative effect on the operations of your job site. It increases the likelihood of damage to the environment and people, as well as the time it takes to clean up the mess.

In this article, we explore a comprehensive overview of the various effects of chemical spills on people, the environment, and the structures within that spill and why it is important to ensure your team is well trained and versed on the awareness of what a chemical spill means to all parties involved.

How Do Chemical Spills Affect Humans?
Different chemicals can pose different threats to people.  For example:

  • In some cases, poisonous or toxic gases can lead to severe illnesses and even death. The concentration of toxic substances that have escaped or leaked can cause even more deaths.
  • When exposed to combustible chemicals, they can cause severe burns and damage the eyes and respiratory tract.
  • Some chemical spills can also delay their carcinogenic effects. For instance, exposure to asbestos can cause lung cancer years after it was first inhaled.
  • Explosions or fires can also result in severe damage to people stemming from flammable chemicals.

How Do They Affect The Structure Of The Site?
Chemical spills can cause significant damage to the surrounding areas of the job site

  • In severe cases, a fire can cause a building’s foundation to collapse due to the effects of the heat.
  • A building can be rendered unusable for a long time due to toxic chemicals that have escaped.

What About Environmental Effects?
Often overlooked, chemical spills can have devastating environmental impacts:

  • Oil spills can have detrimental effects on marine life in surrounding water sources (i.e. canal or lake adjacent or near the job site). Apart from posing a threat to local marine life, they can also pollute the habitats and food sources of these animals.
  • The chemicals that have been spilled can seep into the soil and severely affect the environment. This can make the areas where these chemicals have been dumped inhabitable for a variety of organisms.

In conclusion, slow responses to chemical spills can amplify the negative effects of the spill. The larger the spill’s spread, the more damage it can cause. This is why it is important that the containment efforts are carried out immediately.

If you are not sure where to start in putting a plan in place, reach out to us. We have a vast network of resources and people we can recommend and help with you such matters.   If you have any questions or comments, please share them with us.

We also can help you get your contractor’s license. As a contractor licensing company, we have helped thousands of contractors across the United States get their contractor license, and we want to help you too. First, you provide us with some basic information on your skills, background, testing, education, and other information. Then, we will fill out all the paperwork, let you know if you are missing anything, finish up the application, and submit it to the Board on your behalf to get you approved.

To get your contractor license, click our Florida contractor’s license page to learn more and get started with us or call 239-777-1028.

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What Does The Process Look Like for Becoming A Florida Contractor?

Posted on February 24, 2023 by

We at Licenses ETC are committed to helping people get their contractor’s license quickly and easily. We take pride in providing our customers with high-quality surveys and efficient services. Getting a license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation can be a complex process. In order to help ease the process, we’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions that can better guide and prepare you of what to expect.

FAQ

Pre-License

HOW LONG ARE MY TEST SCORES VALID?

For construction, it’s four years. For electrical, it’s two years.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A REGISTERED AND A CERTIFIED LICENSE?

A “certified contractor” is a state wide contractor licensed at the state level.  A “registered contractor” is a contractor who has a county license (or multiple) who then had to register that license with the state because it was a major trade. Registered contractors can only work in the county in which they have a competency card.

AM I ABLE TO USE OUT-OF-STATE / OUT-OF-COUNTRY EXPERIENCE?

When it comes to contractor’s licenses, experience is important and valid no matter where it occurred, as long as it was legal experience and the projects meet requirements.

I HAVE A TROUBLED PAST, CAN I STILL GET A LICENSE?

It depends on the severity and number of incidences and how recent these incidences are. Click the link below to contact us and learn more.

Post-License

HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO RENEW MY LICENSE AND/OR COMPLETE CONTINUING EDUCATION?

In Florida, a certified contractor needs to complete 14 hours of board-approved continuing education every two years by August 31 of an even-numbered year. For registered contractors, they need to renew in odd-numbered years.

HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO GET MY WORKER’S COMP INSURANCE/EXEMPTION and GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE INTO PLACE? 

Since Worker’s Compensation Exemptions are filed after the contractor license is issued, the state gives you up to 30 days after the issuance to have Worker’s Comp in place. General Liability should be in place for the contractor license to be issued. 

IF MY CREDIT IS BAD, CAN I DESIGNATE A SEPARATE FINANCIALLY RESPONSIBLE OFFICER? 

The Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board does not allow the license holder to alleviate financial responsibility unless they are a secondary qualifier. The Construction Industry Licensing Board will allow for a license holder to alleviate their financial responsibility by designating a third party, but this does not alleviate the financial stability requirement of a public record search and bond if they do not meet a minimum score. 

HOW MUCH MONEY DO I HAVE TO HAVE IN THE BANK TO APPLY FOR A LICENSE? 

Construction licenses do not require a minimum net worth. The requirement is based on your credit.  Applicants with a FICO or BEACON score lower than 660 will require a financial stability bond.  A contractor license applicant must be free of unresolved liens/bankruptcies/judgments to be eligible for licensure. Electrical licenses do require minimums, including: The applicant must have a positive net worth; EC, EG, and EF licenses require a $10,000 net worth of the business entity if there is one; and all specialty electric licenses require $5,000 net worth of the business. 

Post-License Questions: 

CAN THE JOINT VENTURE BID A PROJECT PRIOR TO YOU BECOMING APPROVED AS A QUALIFYING AGENT? 

Yes, but the joint venture must obtain approval of the Construction Industry Licensing Board’s Executive Director prior to submitting the bid on a construction project. The joint venture must provide the Executive Director a copy of the written joint venture agreement and a statement of authority signed by an officer of each company giving the proposed qualifying agent full authority to conduct the contracting business of the joint venture. 

If you’re looking to get your Florida contractor’s license, renew your license, or upgrade your license, we can help! Contact us at 239-777-1028 or click here for more information.

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As A Florida Licensed Contractor, You Will Want To Ensure You Have The Right Legal Protection At The Right Cost

Posted on February 17, 2023 by

When it comes to protecting your Florida Contracting Business from lawsuits or general legal matters, it is imperative that your legal team is on the same page with you in terms of goals, finances & fees.

Today we’re going to talk about 10 things you should consider when you’re hiring a construction lawyer — let’s get started.

First – Are you qualified to handle my case?

When choosing an attorney to handle your case, you should first check their credentials and if they are Board Certified in their field. You should also make sure that they have written articles about the topic that you expect them to work on.

Second – How will you be paid?

Before you hire a construction lawyer, it’s important that you have a good understanding of how they will be paid. This will allow you to make informed decisions and avoid surprises.

Third – Who in your office will handle my case?

Have a conversation very early on with the attorney as to who is going to do the work on the file.  Is it going to be the attorney that you met with?  Is it going to be one of his partners, or associates?  It’s critical that you have an understanding of who is going to be working on the file because the relationship with an attorney is very personal and you want to make sure that the attorney performing the work is up to your standards.

Fourth – Are your fees negotiable?

If your attorney’s fee is hourly, you should be aware of the details of the arrangement. Also, be willing to negotiate.

Fifth – What costs will I incur to prosecute my case?

Expenses can add up in a legal proceeding, and they can include everything from copies to expert witnesses. Having a clear understanding of these costs should help you make informed decisions when it comes to your case.

Sixth – What information is on your bill?

Your attorney’s bills can be hard to understand, so ask them to explain it to you. They should include specific information or formats so that you can understand them. Some of the information that you should see on a bill include a description of the task, the time and cost associated with the task, and the date that the task was completed.

Seventh – What if I have a question about my bill?

Some clients believe that asking too many questions about their attorney’s bill will reduce their chances of getting the proper representation. This is not the case, and your attorney will be more thorough in making sure that the information they provide is correct.

Eight – Do you have malpractice insurance?

Before you hire an attorney, make sure that they have insurance. If something should go wrong in your case, the attorney is liable for the damages. Without malpractice insurance, it will be hard for you to recover from them.

Ninth – Will you represent me well?

Your relationship with an attorney is very personal, and it’s important that you choose a lawyer who can properly represent you both in and out of court.

Tenth – Should I keep copies of the records I send you?

If you are considering changing your legal counsel, you must first inform them that you are dissatisfied with their services. Then, you can transfer their files to another lawyer. In addition, you must also make sure that you have all of the records related to your attorney’s work. Since attorneys can assert a retaining and charging lien if they are not paid, they will not have to return your files. Having these records can help minimize the weight of the lien that your attorney files.

The most important thing that you should consider when it comes to choosing an attorney is trust. If you do not trust the one that you have, then it may be time to consider getting another attorney.

If you have any questions or comments, please share them with us.  We have a vast network of resources and people we can recommend and help with you such matters.   We also can help you get your contractor’s license. As a contractor licensing company, we have helped thousands of contractors across the United States get their contractor license, and we want to help you too. First, you provide us with some basic information on your skills, background, testing, education, and other information. Then, we will fill out all the paperwork, let you know if you are missing anything, finish up the application, and submit it to the Board on your behalf to get you approved.

To get your contractor license, click our Florida contractor’s license page to learn more and get started with us or call 239-777-1028.

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Being An Effective Florida Contractor Is To Also Know Why Work Safety Is So Important

Posted on February 10, 2023 by

Let us explore the brief history of why Work Safety has become a vital part of today’s business as a Florida Licensed Contractor. 

Construction sites are known to be incredibly dangerous places. There are many hazards that can affect a worker’s safety, such as falling objects and heavy machinery. Fortunately, over the years, the laws regarding safety have been improved. The goal of these laws is to help prevent injuries to workers.

In 1970, Congress created the OSHA and the MSHA. These agencies were established to help prevent injuries and illnesses among workers.

Before the industrial revolution, workers had to face various hazards at work. For instance, coal mines were known to be incredibly dangerous places. In 1908, over 3,000 miners died, and in 1948, the number of fatalities went down to 1,000.

During the time of the industrial revolution, there weren’t many regulations regarding the safety of machines. Also, power sources weren’t protected properly.

Workplace safety started to improve in 1970, but it took decades for this to happen. Companies are now legally obligated to ensure the safety of their workers, and they must follow various laws and regulations. The inspections are carried out by OSHA, and establishments that don’t live up to the agency’s standards could be fined or suspended. There’s also a law that protects workers under 18 years old, which limits their work hours and prevents them from working more than one job.

Various technological advancements have contributed to the improvement of workplace safety. Some of these include the development of safety gear, the use of drones, and the development of artificial intelligence.

Even though certain industries are known to be more dangerous, there are still measures in place to ensure your safety.

There are various hazards that contractors face when it comes to their work, such as equipment and chemicals. However, following the proper safety rules can help keep you safe.

If you’re ready to begin a career as a contractor, you will need a license. We can help you get your contractor’s license. As a contractor licensing company, we have helped thousands of contractors across the United States get their contractor license, and we want to help you too. First, you provide us with some basic information on your skills, background, testing, education, and other information. Then, we will fill out all the paperwork, let you know if you are missing anything, finish up the application, and submit it to the Board on your behalf to get you approved.

To get your contractor license, click our Florida contractor’s license page to learn more and get started with us or call 239-777-1028.

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How To Get New Construction Projects & Repeat Clients In 2023

Posted on February 3, 2023 by

As we approach 3 years since the outbreak of the pandemic, we still continue to see many home improvement projects to increase. The Better Business Bureau states that the need for contractors will continue to rise in 2023.  So how do you as a newly licensed contractor capitalize on this upward trend?

So let us consider a few things……Although it’s great news to hear that the number of home improvement projects is increasing, it’s also important that contractors, like yourselves, keep their businesses running smoothly with the latest skill sets, knowledge & technology.  Furthermore, due to the rise in competition and the ongoing trend of home improvement projects being done by the do-it-yourself crowd, many contractors are scrambling to get their clients.

There are a few ways that you can ensure you have your best foot forward with all of the tools needed to show potential clients that your expertise outweighs any other approach they maybe considering.

Partner with Other Local Complementary Businesses

This type of marketing is often referred to as reciprocity or partnership marketing. It provides both you and the business with a win-win situation. It requires that the two parties mutually agree to work together.

In this type of marketing, you can reach out to a local hardware store and ask them to refer you to their customers. In return, you can provide them with a small incentive, such as a discount.  Using other business’s expertise will enhance what you can offer to your clients and will make them feel like  you are a one stop shop.  The more partners you have the more you can offer.

Participate in Networking & Community Events

These events are great for learning about your clients’ needs and helping them connect with the community. They can also show you how your skills can help improve the area. If you’re interested in being a part of the event, ask the organizers to contact you. You can also ask to be a guest speaker or sponsor the event.

Get a Home Improvement Contractor Bond

A bond increases your client’s trust and provides peace of mind. It also helps you maintain credibility as the home improvement contractor. If the principal fails to perform his contractual obligations, the Obligee can file for compensation.

Provide an Online Home Improvement Consultation Service

Potential clients don’t just live in your local area. You can also help people all around the world. This can help further your brand as an expert and educate the DIY’ers out there that a professional maybe needed for specific projects. Living in the Florida area, you have many people who have dual homes both up north and in Florida. Winning their hearts & minds by keeping in touch with them all throughout the year guiding them will be key for long term repeat business. You only need an internet connection, a website, and a couple of social media accounts to set up a successful business.

So to sum up, while these suggested tactics may not be full solution on how to win over clients, they do provide a good stepping stone for you to adapt within your Florida Contracting business.  As we know, building a business is not easy and does take time.  With a little patience and hard work, anything is possible.

If you are looking to expand your business with other types of certifications or licenses in your Florida Contracting business, please call us today.  Our team of experienced professionals are here to help answer all your questions and get you your license. We have help thousands of contractors get their license. We have been a company since 2007. And around 95 percent of our Florida contractor licensing packages get approved the first time with no issues. To learn more about us click here. To get started on your Florida contractor’s license, click here or call 239-777-1028.

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Specialty Contractor Licenses Can Expand Your Client Base

Posted on January 27, 2023 by

In the field of contracting, there are many different specialties that people can choose from. We wanted to share one of these with you today: the Florida Specialty Structure contractor.

In Florida, a specialty contractor can handle various aspects of building structures. These include the assembly, dismantling, and repairs of various types of structures, such as metal, fiberglass, and canvas. Their work is performed according to accepted engineering data.

A specialty contractor can handle various types of building structures. Some of these include metal substructures, pool and spa enclosures, metal roof-overs, aluminum and vinyl fences, handrails, screened porch and deck enclosures, and aluminum and vinyl siding.

For a specialty contractor to work on a project, they must have the necessary experience in various areas, such as concrete in the siding, gutters, roof, and screen walls. They should also have the necessary skills to install and maintain composite and metal panels, concrete slabs, kneewalls, and post footings.

Although a specialty contractor can handle various aspects of building structures, they are not allowed to alter the structural integrity of the building by working with roof trusses, load-bearing walls, and foundations. Their work on masonry concrete projects only involves slabs, kneewalls, and foundations.

Want to get your Florida contractor’s license and become a certified specialty structure contractor? Our team of experienced professionals are here to help answer all your questions and get you your license. We have help thousands of contractors get their license. We have been a company since 2007. And around 95 percent of our Florida contractor licensing packages get approved the first time with no issues. To learn more about us click here. To get started on your Florida contractor’s license, click here or call 239-777-1028.

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Things To Consider As A Florida Contractor When Joining A Trade Organization

Posted on January 20, 2023 by

As a contractor, it’s important that you are licensed in Florida . Having this license allows you to expand your scope of work and earn more money. You can also join a trade organization to improve your skills and expand your career.

Being a part of a trade organization can help you expand your scope of professional contacts and improve your skills. It can also help you build new business opportunities. Although some trade organizations charge for dues, it is well spent.

Through their various newsletters, magazines, and online forums, trade organizations can provide you with the latest information about the construction and building industry. Being informed about the latest trends can help you stand out from the crowd.

Various trade organizations also provide professional development and education. They usually hold seminars and conferences, and some even have access to legal experts.

Here are five trade organizations related to the building and contracting trades (some may have regional or local chapters in Florida): 

  

—Associated Builders and Contractors: With a membership of more than 21,000 professionals across 70 chapters, Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) advocates for open competition and a free-enterprise approach that awards contracts based on merit (and not union affiliation). 

  

—Associated General Contractors of America: Associated General Contractors of America (known as AGC) represents more than 26,000 firms, including more than 9,000 specialty-contracting firms. Its powerful advocacy wing supports federal infrastructure spending, and its guiding principles include philanthropy and workplace diversity. 

  

—National Association of Home Builders: The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is comprised of more than 800 state and local associations; about one-third of its members are homebuilders or remodelers. Members can participate in councils that focus on specific disciplines within the home building industry and have access to a wealth of information and experts. 

  

—National Association of Women in Construction: The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWC) is a network group with a mission to enhance the success of women in the industry. It provides members with opportunities for professional development and leadership training, among other benefits. 

  

—American Subcontractors Association: The American Subcontractors Association (ACA) seeks to improve the business environment in the construction industry through reforms, and represents the interests of subcontractors, specialty contractors, and materials suppliers. It maintains professional standards of practice for members to follow when bidding and executing contracts. 

You don’t need to join a trade organization to be a successful contractor, but you must have a contractor license to work legally.  

At Licenses, Etc., we are a Florida contractor licensing company who help individuals and companies navigate the state’s licensing requirements, with approvals as quick as 10 days. For more information on contractor requirements or to get an application started, visit our Florida contractor license  page or call 239-777-1028. 

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