General Contractors

A typical general contractors project starts with an on-site assessment and a written scope, then permitting where required, the work itself, and a final walkthrough. Ask each contractor to itemize labor, materials, cleanup and warranty so estimates are easy to compare.

South Florida work must account for heat, humidity, salt air, heavy summer rain and hurricane-season wind loads. Confirm the contractor uses current Florida product approvals and follows the wind, drainage and permitting rules for your municipality.

Most general contractors work needs a permit in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade. Your contractor should pull the permit under their own license and schedule the required inspections — be cautious of anyone who suggests skipping it.

Compare estimates line by line, not on price alone. Check that each bid covers the same scope, materials and timeline, and confirm the contractor's active Florida license, insurance, warranty terms and references first.

Ask for the Florida license number, proof of general liability and workers' comp insurance, recent local references, a written contract, and a payment schedule tied to project milestones.

Speak with several licensed South Florida contractors, confirm scope and pricing in writing, and verify licensing and insurance before any general contractors work begins.