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If you are planning to hire a contractor to complete the work you need done on your home, you should never hire an unlicensed contractor. An unlicensed contractor may seem like a good deal, but they can cost you a lot of money and even cause you damage. You should always hire a licensed contractor, as they are required to carry workers’ compensation and general liability insurance.
Legitimate contractors pay a lot of money to get employees licensed
When it comes to building a home or running a small business, a license is like gold. The rewards are well deserved. Some jurisdictions require contractors to carry worker’s compensation insurance and carry a tax registration certificate for a fee. If you are lucky enough to live in such a sexy locale, you are also well rewarded with good wages and perks, such as health and dental benefits. In fact, you might be surprised to know that a licensed contractor has a higher overhead cost than its unscrupulous counterparts. So, the next time you need a contractor, remember to check out their business cards. Make sure to ask for proof of insurance and to check that they are licensed. You never know when a license will be required.
Legitimate contractors carry workers’ compensation and general liability insurance
When you’re hiring contractors to work on your home, it’s important to have a firm understanding of the requirements for hiring workers. It’s also important to be aware of the risks associated with doing business without insurance.
A contractor without insurance is vulnerable to claims against their personal assets. In some states, they can even be sued if they accidentally injure someone on the homeowner’s property. If this happens, they won’t be able to afford replacement materials, and they might be forced to pay out of pocket for the damages.
In other states, they may have to show proof of insurance before they can start work. This can be a big deal to contractors, and they may be required to purchase additional insurance policies or request that their current policy be modified.
Unlicensed contractors may seem like a great deal, but you get what you pay for
It may seem like an easy way to save money during your remodel, but there are plenty of reasons to avoid unlicensed contractors. Choosing a contractor without a license could cost you your home and your bank account.
Unlicensed contractors have no liability insurance and can leave you liable for damages and injuries at your worksite. In addition, they can create a lien on your property, which could make it hard to sell your home later.
Unlicensed contractors may also lack proper business structure and permits. You may be forced to hire another contractor or pay a fine to the city if an unlicensed contractor is working on your property. Licensed contractors also have workers’ compensation and liability insurance.
A reputable contractor will be more than happy to give you written estimates. These should include the scope of the project, the total cost and the completion date. Also ask to see proof of insurance and a bond.
Unlicensed contractors can sue for damages
If you hire a contractor to perform a home improvement project, it’s a good idea to make sure he or she is licensed. Those who are unlicensed can be liable for damages if they are found to be negligent in the performance of the work.
Homeowners often hire contractors to do construction or repair work. Licensed contractors are professionals who know how to get the job done safely and correctly. An unlicensed contractor, on the other hand, may be unfit for the task and could lead to serious injuries at the job site. Unlicensed contractors are also prone to unsafe practices that can cause damage and injury to the homeowner and anyone else who is around them.
Although some homeowners claim that unlicensed contractors are not allowed to sue them for damages, that is not the case. Several courts have found exceptions to the rule. One of these exceptions is the substandard work exception.
How to file a complaint against an unlicensed contractor
If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of hiring an unlicensed contractor, you may be looking for a way to file a complaint against that individual. Although there are several options to choose from, you may be unsure of which one would be best for your case.
You can file a complaint against an unlicensed contractor by contacting your local police department. If you are not comfortable calling the police, you can go online and report the contractor.
The Martin County Building Department also investigates complaints against contractors. They accept complaints via mail, but you can also send them an email.
You can also report an unlicensed contractor to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. This is the same department that regulates licensed contractors. It is important to note that licensed contractors are generally bonded. In addition, licensed contractors are required to have liability insurance.