By Paola VIlla, Building Department Manager

Dear Residents: If you are planning on starting construction, remodeling or making any alterations (including installing hurricane shutters or impact glass) to your property, beware of hiring the right contractor.
The City of Sunny Isles Beach Building Department has joined efforts with The Department of Business and Professional Regulations to inform and educate City residents about the importance of hiring only licensed contractors.

Keep in mind that while hiring an unlicensed contractor may provide a quick fix in the short term, it could result in many serious and lasting consequences, including further damage to your property. On the other hand, by hiring a licensed contractor, you will have peace of mind knowing that the project will be done by someone who has taken the time to acquire the appropriate education and the proper workers’ compensation and/or liability insurance. Remember that the first step in adding value to your home is hiring the right contractor to complete the project.
These guidelines will help you make the right decision when hiring a contractor.

• Before you hire a contractor, ask to see a state-issued license.
• Make sure a contractor’s license is current and active by calling the State at 850-487-1395 or visiting www.MyFloridalicense.com. You can also verify a contractor’s information by calling the City of Sunny Isles Beach Building Department at 305-947-2150.
• Beware that an occupational license does not qualify an individual to act as a contractor.
• Ask for references. A legitimate contractor will be happy to provide you with the names and contact information of recent customers.
• Get a written estimate from several licensed contractors. Make sure the estimate includes the work the contractor will do, the materials involved, the completion date and total cost.
• Beware of contractors who claim to be the fastest or the cheapest. Hiring them could result in poor workmanship, inferior materials or unfinished jobs.
• Avoid paying cash.
• Avoid any contractor who requires payment in advance. Arrange to pay after the work is completed or in agreed-upon installments.
• Don’t sign off that the work is completed until all work is finished to your satisfaction and all permits are cleared via a final inspection and/or a Certificate of Completion from the Building Department.
• If your contract exceeds $2,500 become familiar with the Florida Construction Lien Law. You can find details at www.MyFlorida.com/dbpr
• Beware of contractors soliciting business door-to-door, who frequently travel in unmarked trucks and vans. They usually give a post office box address instead of a street address.

Remember, if you have any questions or complaints regarding a contractor’s services or if you are aware of someone working without a license, contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

Report unlicensed activity at:   850-488-6608

Verify a License at:         850-487-1395


Lastly, make sure that your contractor(s) has secured the necessary building permit(s) prior to commencing work in your property.

Generally, a permit is required for the erection or construction of any structure. Also, permits are required for all additions, reparations, improvements, alterations, and extension or covering of a structure (this includes, but is not limited to, the installation, alteration, and/or reparation of any electrical wiring and electrical equipment, plumbing fixture or water source line, mechanical equipment and any gas supply system).

To verify that you need a permit before starting any improvement or construction, or to verify if a contractor is duly registered with the City, please check with the Building Department at 305-947-2150.

Remember that the City’s Building Department is committed to assisting you with any questions you may have about your home improvement project(s) and helping you protect your property investment.