You’re ready to start your home remodeling project, and you’ve found a contractor who seems perfect. They have a polished website, great photos, and competitive prices. But before you sign anything or hand over a deposit, there’s one critical step you cannot skip: verifying their license.
In Florida, hiring an unlicensed contractor puts your home, your money, and your legal rights at risk. Thousands of homeowners learn this lesson the hard way each year. The good news? Checking a contractor’s credentials takes just a few minutes and could save you from costly mistakes.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about Florida contractor licenses, how to verify them online, and what those license types actually mean for your project.
Understanding Florida Contractor Licenses: CBC vs. CGC
Florida requires contractors to hold specific licenses based on the type and scope of work they perform. The two most common licenses for residential projects are CBC and CGC.
What is a CBC License?
A Certified Building Contractor (CBC) license authorizes contractors to work on residential and commercial buildings. This license covers structural work, remodeling, renovations, and new construction. CBC-licensed contractors can handle projects involving roofing, siding, windows, doors, and other exterior improvements.
To earn a CBC license, contractors must pass rigorous exams covering building codes, business practices, and construction management. They must also meet insurance requirements and demonstrate financial responsibility.
What is a CGC License?
A Certified General Contractor (CGC) license is the most comprehensive contractor license in Florida. CGC-licensed contractors can perform any type of construction work, including all projects covered under a CBC license plus additional commercial and industrial work.
The CGC license requires even more extensive testing and demonstrates a higher level of expertise across multiple construction disciplines. Contractors with CGC licenses have proven knowledge of complex building systems, project management, and Florida’s construction regulations.
Key Differences Between CBC and CGC
While both licenses qualify contractors for residential remodeling work, the CGC license covers a broader scope. A contractor with both licenses, like A&E Remodeling (CBC031923, CGC1504594), demonstrates exceptional qualifications and versatility across project types.
For your home project, either license provides the legal authorization and expertise you need. What matters most is that the license is active, in good standing, and matches the contractor’s business name.
How to Verify a Contractor’s License in Florida
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) maintains a free online database where you can verify any contractor’s license in seconds.
Step-by-Step Verification Process
Step 1: Visit the Florida DBPR website and navigate to the license verification page.
Step 2: Enter the contractor’s license number, business name, or individual name in the search field.
Step 3: Review the search results carefully. The database will show the license status, issue date, expiration date, and any disciplinary actions.
Step 4: Verify that the license is “Active” and the expiration date is current.
Step 5: Check that the business name on the license matches the name on your contract and the contractor’s business cards or website.
Step 6: Look for any complaints, violations, or disciplinary actions listed in the license history.
The entire process takes less than five minutes and gives you immediate peace of mind or an early warning sign.
Red Flags That Should Stop You From Hiring
When verifying contractor credentials, watch for these warning signs:
No License Number Provided: If a contractor refuses to provide their license number or claims they “don’t need one” for your type of project, walk away immediately.
Expired or Inactive License: An expired license means the contractor is currently working illegally. They may have let their insurance lapse or failed to complete continuing education requirements.
Suspended or Revoked License: This indicates serious violations, complaints, or legal issues. Never hire a contractor with a suspended or revoked license.
Mismatched Names: If the license is under a different business name than what appears on your estimate, this could indicate fraud or an unlicensed person operating under someone else’s credentials.
Multiple Complaints: While one complaint doesn’t necessarily disqualify a contractor, a pattern of complaints or unresolved violations should raise concerns.
Why Proper Licensing Protects Your Investment
Florida’s licensing requirements exist to protect homeowners like you. When you hire a properly licensed contractor, you gain several important protections.
Licensed contractors must carry workers’ compensation and liability insurance. If someone gets injured on your property or your home is damaged during the project, you’re protected from financial liability.
The state can take disciplinary action against licensed contractors who perform substandard work or engage in fraudulent practices. This gives you recourse if something goes wrong.
Licensed contractors must demonstrate knowledge of Florida’s building codes and safety standards. This expertise helps ensure your project meets legal requirements and passes inspections.
Finally, many financing options, insurance claims, and permit applications require proof that you’re working with a licensed contractor. Using an unlicensed contractor could jeopardize your insurance coverage or create problems when you sell your home.
Working With Fully Licensed Professionals
A&E Remodeling holds both CBC (CBC031923) and CGC (CGC1504594) licenses, demonstrating our commitment to operating at the highest professional standards. Our dual licensing means we can handle any residential remodeling project while providing you with the legal protections and expertise you deserve.
We encourage every homeowner to verify our licenses before starting a project. Transparency about credentials is the mark of a contractor who has nothing to hide and everything to offer.
Protect Your Home and Your Investment
Verifying a contractor’s license is the single most important step you can take before starting any home improvement project. This simple five-minute check protects you from fraud, ensures you’re working with qualified professionals, and gives you legal recourse if problems arise.
Don’t let an impressive portfolio or a low bid convince you to skip this step. The Florida DBPR database is free, easy to use, and available 24/7. Make license verification your first step in the contractor selection process, not an afterthought.
If you have questions about contractor licensing or want to discuss your upcoming exterior remodeling project with a fully licensed, experienced team, we’re here to help.