Hiring licensed professionals protects your construction investment and ensures compliance.
In the dynamic Florida construction market, the temptation to cut costs by hiring unlicensed contractors is a trap many property owners fall into—often to their own detriment. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to renovate or a real estate developer managing a build-to-rent project, the risks of unlicensed contractors in Florida are real and potentially devastating.
At Greenland Development Group, we’ve seen firsthand how choosing the wrong contractor can derail timelines, inflate budgets, and expose clients to legal consequences. In this article, we’ll break down:
- Why hiring licensed contractors is essential
- The dangers of working with unlicensed workers
- How to verify a contractor’s credentials in Florida
1. Why Hiring Licensed Contractors Matters
A valid license is proof of a contractor’s training, accountability, and legal compliance.
Licensed contractors are held to professional standards established by the state of Florida. To obtain a license, contractors must meet specific education, experience, and examination requirements. This process ensures that licensed professionals:
- Understand and follow state and local building codes
- Carry proper insurance and bonding, reducing liability for homeowners
- Have a track record of ethical business practices
- Are subject to disciplinary action if they violate standards
Hiring licensed contractors offers peace of mind. You’re not just paying for labor—you’re investing in accountability, safety, and compliance. At Greenland Development Group, all subcontractors and project leads are thoroughly vetted and properly licensed.
2. The risks of unlicensed contractors in Florida
Unlicensed contractors often leave projects incomplete or poorly executed.
The promise of lower costs can be appealing, but working with unlicensed contractors often leads to costly consequences. Here’s what’s at stake:
a. Legal Exposure
In Florida, it is illegal to hire unlicensed contractors for most construction-related services. If an issue arises, homeowners may have limited legal recourse—and may even face fines for knowingly hiring an unlicensed contractor.
b. Poor Workmanship
Unlicensed contractors often lack formal training and experience. This can lead to substandard construction, unsafe installations, and building code violations that halt your project or require expensive rework.
c. Financial Loss
If an unlicensed contractor disappears mid-project, you may have little to no protection. Most don’t carry insurance, leaving you on the hook for damage, injury, or incomplete work.
d. Voided Insurance or Permits
Work done by unlicensed individuals can void your homeowner’s insurance and lead to denied permit approvals. That can delay your project and negatively impact resale value.
3. How to Verify a Contractor’s License in Florida
Always verify a contractor’s license at MyFloridaLicense.com before signing a contract.
a. Use the Florida DBPR Website
Visit www.myfloridalicense.com and search by name or license number. Make sure the license is:
- Active
- In good standing
- Properly classified for the work you’re hiring them to do
b. Ask the Right Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask:
- What is your license number and classification?
- Are you insured and bonded?
- Can I see your license and insurance certificate?
A professional contractor will always provide documentation.
c. Review Their Work
Ask for references and examples of completed projects. Read online reviews and testimonials to ensure the contractor is reliable and experienced.
4. What to Do If You Suspect Unlicensed Activity
Help protect your community—report unlicensed contractors to the Florida DBPR.
If you suspect a contractor is operating without a license, report them to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. This helps protect other homeowners and ensures accountability in the industry.
To report unlicensed activity:
Call DBPR at 1-866-532-1440
Visit: www.myfloridalicense.com
Conclusion: Protect Your Property—Hire Licensed Professionals
Greenland Development Group delivers high-quality results using fully licensed professionals.
At Greenland Development Group, we prioritize transparency, quality, and compliance in every project we undertake. While unlicensed contractors might promise lower costs, the legal risks, financial losses, and safety concerns are simply not worth it.
By hiring licensed professionals, you ensure your construction project is:
- Built to code
- Completed on time and within budget
- Covered by insurance and legal protection
✅ Ready to Build? Let’s Talk
Contact Greenland Development Group to discuss your next project—residential, commercial, or build-to-rent. We’re here to build it right from the ground up.
Address: 6735 Conroy Rd, STE 310, Orlando, FL 32835
Website: https://www.greenlanddevelopmentgroup.com
Phone: (689) 245-2506
Instagram: @GreenlandCustoms