All of us like to try and find the best deals – especially when it comes to expensive home improvements.
However, if a plumber, electrician, or air conditioning contractor has just given you a very low quote that seems too good to be true, there is a good chance they are unlicensed.
As tempting as it may be to hire an unlicensed contractor who offers a great bargain, it is against the law!
Now if you are ever in doubt you can whip out your smart phone and make sure you have the right person for the job!
Just search for the Florida DBPR Mobile App – it's free, and will let you easily search for companies and individuals to make sure they are licensed.
Besides it being illegal to hire unlicensed contractors, unlicensed contractors are subject to arrest and prosecution for working without a license.
Here are some other reasons not to use them:
Unlicensed contractors may not have the proper skills and experience. They also don't have professional or legal standards they must abide by.
Unlicensed contractors are dangerous because they expose you to significant financial harm if injury or property damage happens.
Homeowner's insurance does not cover unlicensed contractors, and by law the homeowner is held responsible for hiring an unlicensed contractor and is held accountable for any work associated with the contractor. If an unlicensed contractor's carelessness leads to injury or damage to your neighbors property, the problem is yours.
If a contractor files bankruptcy or skips out while working on your home, you are responsible for all fines and unpaid bills to suppliers. You're also responsible for the wages of employees who worked for the unlicensed contractor.