What is the difference between a certified and registered Florida contractor?
DBPR says a certified contractor may work throughout Florida within the license category. A registered contractor works under a local license and may practice only in that county or city and adjoining places that accept the registration. Read the actual record because the work category and status still matter.
Does every small repair require a state contractor license?
No. DBPR lists cabinets, countertops, paint, wallpaper, carpet, tile, and window treatments as examples that do not require a state license. It also describes a narrow exemption for casual, minor, or inconsequential handyman work below $2,500. That does not settle the local answer. Local license and permit rules can still apply, and DBPR says work that needs a permit is usually not casual, minor, or inconsequential. Ask the building office about the exact scope.
Does the new under-$7,500 permit exemption mean a contractor license is unnecessary?
No. The permit exemption and contractor licensing answer different questions. Since July 1, 2026, some work under $7,500 on a single-family home can qualify for a local permit exemption, but the law excludes flood-hazard property and electrical, plumbing, structural, mechanical, and gas work. It also requires a written request and supporting documents. It does not create a new contractor-license exemption.
What should the DBPR search show before I hire someone?
Match the person or business to the proposal and payment instructions. The result should show the right work category, Current/Active status, expiration date, and qualifying agent. Read any complaint or discipline information as part of the same check. If the record is unclear, call DBPR or the local license office before relying on it.
What if a contractor takes more than a 10 percent initial payment?
For covered residential work, section 489.126 generally gives the contractor 30 days after that payment to apply for needed permits. The next deadline is 90 days after all necessary permits are issued to start work. Just cause or a written agreement can extend the timing. The law also has an exact certified-mail demand process, so get advice before relying on that remedy.
Where do I report unlicensed or problem contracting?
DBPR has one complaint path for licensed professionals and another for suspected unlicensed work. Keep the proposal, contract, license search, permit record, payments, photos, messages, and dates together. Depending on what happened, the local building office, insurer, police, or a Florida attorney may also need the file.
