Building Construction Services
Consumer Information - Before You Sign
General Information - Unlicensed Contractors - Warning Signs
Home Solicitation Sales - Identifying Licensed Contractors - Before You Sign
Things to do Before Signing a Contract
1. Always get three (3) bids or estimates before signing a contract or giving the contractor a deposit.
2. Call the Building Department’s Contractor Licensing Division (941) 743-1209 or 743-1210 (Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.) To inquire if a contractor has a valid contractor’s license and insurance.
3. Each contractor should have a contractor’s number listed on his contract that you can use to verify with the Licensing Division.
4. Make sure the work to be done is in writing on the contract regardless of how minute.
5. Make sure all warranties are listed on the contract - not verbal.
6. Make sure you read all the fine print on your contract and understand same, or ask your contractor to explain before you sign the contract.
7. Include in the contract that the contractor will supply you with a Contractor’s
Final Affidavit (of no liens) when the job is completed and at the same time you give him the final payment.
