Need a Home Services / Remodeling Contract in Florida? AroundWire Can Help

In Florida, contracts for home services and remodeling are governed by both state statutes and local ordinances, with particular emphasis on consumer protection and contractor licensing. Written contracts are strongly recommended—and often required—especially for projects exceeding $2,500. Contractors must hold valid state or county licenses appropriate to the scope of work (e.g., general, building, or specialty contractor), and unlicensed contracting is a criminal offense. Florida law mandates that contracts detail the scope of work, materials, start and completion dates, payment schedule, and the contractor’s license number. For projects involving residential properties, the contract must include a “Notice of Owner’s Rights” regarding lien laws, as Florida’s Construction Lien Law (Chapter 713, Florida Statutes) gives contractors and subcontractors the right to file a lien if unpaid. Insurance requirements typically include general liability and workers’ compensation coverage. Risk factors include exposure to severe weather, code compliance, and lien disputes. Payment terms often involve a deposit capped at 10% or $1,000 (whichever is less) before work begins, with subsequent payments tied to project milestones. Dispute resolution commonly starts with mediation or arbitration, per contract clauses, before litigation is pursued. Local permitting and inspection requirements can impact timelines and must be clearly addressed in the contract. Failure to adhere to these standards can result in penalties, loss of licensure, or legal action.