If you suffered damage from Hurricane Irma, you need to notify your insurance company immediately.
If you are having repairs done at your home you need to:
- Ensure the work is being done by a Florida licensed contractor. If you are told a Florida license is not needed, confirm with your local building department. You can check to see if a contractor is licensed at this link: https://www.myfloridalicense.com/wl11.asp?mode=0&SID=
- Ensure a notice of commencement is recorded showing the work being done and which contractor is doing the work as well as your address for serving notices to owner.
- Ensure a building permit is issued before the work is started. If you are told a building permit is not needed check with your local building department.
- Ensure your contractor has worker’s compensation or an exemption. You can check at this link: https://apps8.fldfs.com/proofofcoverage/Search.aspx
- Protect yourself from liens by requiring your contractor to provide a lien waiver when you make each payment as well as lien waivers for all subcontractors and suppliers that provided goods or services for the period for which payment is sought.
- Do not make final payment for the work without first receiving a contractor’s final affidavit.
Before you enter into a contract for repairs of your home, you should consult with an attorney with experience in the construction industry.
