Check the license for the actual work
Ask for the business name, qualifying contractor’s name and license number. Search the Florida DBPR license records using its verification instructions. Open the record and compare the business name with your estimate. Check the license status and type; a number printed in an advertisement is not enough.
Requirements depend on the scope. DBPR explains that some painting and cabinet work may not require a state license; ask the local building department about your particular job. Do not assume that “handyman” covers regulated electrical, plumbing, AC or roofing work. A business registration or business tax receipt does not establish the right to perform licensed work.
Example: Painting a kitchen and relocating its electrical outlets are different scopes. Ask who will perform each part and which credentials apply.
Ask for insurance and relevant experience
Request current liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage or an applicable exemption. Ask the insurer or issuing agent to confirm the documents and covered business. Request recent references for a similar project and ask who will supervise the work, including any subcontractors.
A polished website, social-media recommendation or low price is a starting point for research, not evidence that these checks are complete.
Confirm permits with the right building department
Use the property’s location to identify its city or county building authority. A mailing city or ZIP alone should not be your only check. Describe the work and ask whether a permit, licensed contractor or inspection is required. Record who will apply for permits and arrange inspections in the estimate.
- Volusia County Building and Zoning — start here for county guidance; confirm the authority for a property inside a municipality.
- Flagler County Building and Inspections — building and inspection resources for unincorporated Flagler County.
- City of Palm Coast Building Division — municipal resources for Palm Coast projects.
If someone asks you to obtain an owner-builder permit, first ask the building department what responsibilities you would be taking on. Do not treat it as a routine shortcut.
Compare the same scope in writing
Give each contractor the same project description, then record materials or equipment, preparation, repairs, disposal, permit costs, timing, exclusions and payment milestones. Ask how hidden damage and other changes will be priced and approved.
For example, a cabinet-painting estimate that excludes doors’ backs, hardware removal and surface repairs cannot be compared on price alone with one that includes them. For AC replacement, compare the equipment and included duct or electrical work, not just system size.
Use our free estimate-comparison worksheet to keep the differences and unanswered questions together.
Resolve missing details before paying
Pause if the business names do not match, required credentials cannot be verified, or the written scope is missing. Confirm the deposit, remaining payments, change process and completion requirements before signing.
Volusia County’s homeowner guidance covers warning signs, insurance, references and written estimates. For questions about a specific license or permit, use the relevant authority above.
Plan the details for your trade
Use the matching project guide to build your scope and questions:
Connect-A-Pro provides project-planning resources and a platform for contractor connections; we do not perform the work. This checklist does not certify a contractor or determine the requirements for your property.
Full project requests are not open yet. Our free homeowner email list provides service-area updates; joining does not book a contractor or guarantee a match.