Your Contractor Wants You to Pull the Permit. Should You?

Resources / Hiring & Protecting Your Investment

When someone says, “Just pull the permit yourself,” it may sound harmless. But acting as an owner-builder in Florida is a legal status with eligibility conditions and responsibilities. It should never be treated as a shortcut for a contractor who lacks the proper credentials.

What is the owner-builder exemption?

Florida Statutes § 489.103 provides certain exemptions allowing qualifying owners to act as their own contractors. The law sets rules concerning ownership, intended use, direct supervision and other conditions. Depending on the facts, rental, resale and commercial properties can present additional limitations. Always ask your local building department to explain the actual requirements.

What changes when you take responsibility?

The person acting as the owner-builder may become responsible for ensuring that the work complies with applicable rules, obtaining required permits and inspections, and coordinating workers and appropriately licensed trades. Local authorities may require disclosure and acknowledgment of these responsibilities. An owner who does not intend to manage the construction should question why they are being asked to use this route.

Warning signs to investigate

• The proposed contractor refuses to show a license or says permits should be in your name to save trouble.
• The contractor plans to run every aspect of the work while you are nominally the owner-builder.
• No one clearly identifies who will supervise trade work, manage inspections or correct violations.
• The proposal encourages work to start before required permits are issued.

When could it be legitimate?

An eligible property owner who truly undertakes the statutory owner-builder role and follows the governing rules may have a legitimate path. But it must be an informed choice. Read the statutory exemption, confirm eligibility with the jurisdiction and seek legal advice if the ownership or planned use is complicated.

Our perspective

Imperial Group believes permitting responsibilities should be transparent. When a project calls for licensed contractors and permits, we want the correct parties identified and the required process followed. Learn why permits matter.