Know Your Contractor
A message brought to you by
Florida Keys Contractors Association
Before hiring a contractor
you should ask a few questions
General Questions
How long has the contractor been in the construction business?
Can they provide references from satisfied customers for the type of construction work you are requesting of them?
Questions Regarding Licensing
Is the contractor licensed in Monroe County? If so, what type of license does the contractor hold and what is the license number? Ask your contractor to provide you with a copy of their license.
You can also check out your contractor online at oss.monroecounty-fl.gov. On the left hand side of the home page click on “Contractor Search”
Ask your contractor for proof of Insurance - You should always ask for a Certificate of Insurance prior to signing a contract or allowing work to be started.
General Liability Insurance
Marine Contractors are required to have USL&H insurance when doing work adjacent to navigable waters. When using a marine contractor ask your contractor to provide you with a Certificate of Insurance stating that USL&H coverage is provided. Jones Act Insurance is required for barge work.
Workers Compensation Insurance
The Certificate of Exemption is only for the qualifying individuals noted above. If an exempt contractor also has employees on the jobsite, workers compensation insurance must be provided for them. Under most circumstances, if a contractor does not provide this insurance for his employees and a worker is injured on a job, the homeowner will be responsible for the medical expenses and possibly find himself involved a lawsuit.
In Summary
Before You choose a contractor
Information from the Monroe Country Florida Website.