Do You Need a Licensed Contractor?

Do You Need A Licensed Contractor?

Some projects will require a licensed contractor and others will not. Here’s a handy guide to help you know the difference between a licensed and unlicensed contractor (it’s not a s simple as you might think) and when you need one.

McManus Kitchen and Bath provides a single place where you can work with interior design and construction professionals who can help you create a happy, healthy home. We start each project with a Design and Budget Consult. It will help you clarify your design ideas, understand the remodeling process and create a Good Better Best Budget for your project. Click Here to Schedule a Consult

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McManus Kitchen and Bath provides a single place where you can work with interior design and construction professionals who can help you create a happy, healthy home. We start each project with a Design and Budget Consult. It will help you clarify your design ideas, understand the remodeling process and create a Good Better Best Budget for your project. Click Here to Schedule a Consult

Do you need a licensed Contractor?

The scope of work for your project will help you decide the minimum qualifications the contractor you need to hire. Here’s a short chart that might help:

Need A License	Don’t Need A License
Any time subcontractors are hired	Install Pavers or concrete walkway
Anytime a permit is needed	Interior or exterior painting
Build a Carport or Sunroom	Drywall work (unless a moving load bearing wall is involved)
New Roofing and Roof Repairs	Install flooring or tile
Kitchen remodel if plumbing, electric or walls are being moved	Install cabinets and counters (if no plumbing or elec)
Any plumbing, HVAC or Electric work	Trim work like baseboard or crown molding
New or replacement Windows or Exterior Doors	simple woodrot repairs that are not structural
Bathroom Remodel is plumbing, electrical or walls are being moved	New or replacement interior doors
Waterproofing a shower	Install Glass shower enclosure

An important warning: If you use an unlicensed contractor neither your homeowners insurance or the contractor’s general liability insurance will cover you in case of any issues. Un-permitted work could also affect the sale of your home.

Can You Act As Your Own Contractor?

In Florida you can pull permits and act as the contractor for your primary residence. Whether you want to do that depends on a few questions:

Do you have the necessary building knowledge?
Do you have the necessary product knowledge?
Do you have the time to manage the project?
Do you have a source of reliable subcontractors?
Does your homeowners insurance cover you in case of accidental damage?

Hiring a contractor to run your project adds about 30% to the cost of a project. If you can manage those things on your own then you might be able to act as the contractor on your project.

Be aware though that your homeowners insurance does not protect you from liability issues the way a contractors general liability insurance does.

Thank you for reading! We’d love to be a part of your next remodel. Check out our design services page