The 10 Best Orlando, FL General Contractors

You must hire a licensed contractor for all construction and home improvement work in Orlando that requires a permit or for which you pay someone.

The Florida Construction Industry License Board regulates contractor certification. Applicants must have 4 years of relevant work experience or education, pass state board examinations testing relevant skills, law and business, prove financial solvency and pay a fee. As of 2007, applicants must submit their fingerprints for a criminal background check. Contractors must complete 14 hours of continued education every two years to be eligible for renewal. Contractors must have an active workers’ compensation policy and provide proof of public liability and property damage insurance in amounts determined by the Board.

Licensed contractors must hold af construction on your property.n active workers’ compensation policy and public liability and property damage insurance in the amounts determined by the Board. It is highly recommended that you acquire copies of each insurance certificate for your records prior to starting construction.

Generally, a permit is required in Orlando for all new construction and most demolition, additions, alterations and repairs, particularly if a project changes the floor area or building’s structure. A permit is also needed for most accessory structures such as swimming pools, detached structures, sheds and garages. If you are unsure if you need permits, contact the City of Orlando’s Permitting Services Division at 407.246.2271.

Permits are issued by the City of Orlando’s Permitting Services Division. The permitting process is designed to protect your investment and the public safety by ensuring compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. You should decide with your contractor at the start of your project who will be responsible for taking out permits. The Permitting Services Division offers customers a variety of methods for obtaining a building permit, including same-day permits for some minor alterations and repairs. Most projects require the submission of construction plans for review; plans can be submitted in person or electronically. More details are available on the Orlando Permitting Services Division’s website.

Homeowners who have suffered monetary loss due to the the financial mismanagement or misconduct of a licensed contractor may have access to the Florida Homeowners’ Construction Recovery Fund as a last resort. Recovery is limited to natural persons and the Board makes the determination of eligibility. Contractors in Florida are not required to hold a bond.

The BuildZoom score is based on a number of factors including the contractor's license information, which is gathered from the Florida Construction Industry License Board; building permit data, gathered from the City of Orlando’s Permitting Services Division; and feedback and behavior we have observed in the BuildZoom marketplace and in other, third-party review sites.

We have analyzed every licensed contractor who has worked in Orlando, Florida. Using this information, we’re able to save you time, money and lessen your risk by providing you with a simple and straight-forward way to gather and receive multiple bids from vetted general contractors in Orlando. Click here to get started by providing us with a few details about your project.