Not All Contractors Are Licensed to Do the Same Work

Resources / Hiring & Protecting Your Investment

A contractor can be talented, experienced and trustworthy without being legally authorized to perform every type of construction. Understanding the difference helps owners choose a qualified team—particularly when a project moves from a house to a business location.

A license has a defined scope

Florida recognizes general, building, residential and other contractor classifications, along with regulated specialty trades. Each has legal limits. A home remodeling portfolio does not, by itself, establish authority to contract for an unrelated commercial improvement. Verify the license category, status and qualifying business, not just the contractor's name or years of experience.

What changes with commercial renovations?

Renovating a hair salon, restaurant, office or store can bring accessibility, fire/life-safety, mechanical ventilation, electrical loads, plumbing fixture requirements and occupancy considerations into the planning. Depending on the proposed changes, plans and separate reviews may be needed. The actual scope and jurisdiction control the requirements.

What about electricians, plumbers and mechanical contractors?

A general contractor may coordinate a multi-trade project while regulated specialty installations are performed under the proper trade licenses and permits. Ask who is responsible for each system, who will obtain applicable trade permits and how inspections will be coordinated.

Five questions before hiring

1. What is the exact contractor license classification and number?
2. Does the license authorize the complete proposed scope?
3. Is the company on the contract properly qualified?
4. Who will perform and permit electrical, plumbing or mechanical work?
5. Will any licensed design professional be required for drawings or approvals?

A real commercial renovation example

In his approved testimonial, Stanley L. explains how the residential contractor he trusted recognized a limitation for his salon renovation and referred him to Mark Reynolds at Imperial Group. Knowing when to refer work to an appropriately qualified contractor is an important professional judgment.