How are construction companies licensed ?

In the State of Florida contractor licenses are granted at both the State level by DBPR as "Certified" contractors, and at the local level by county or city authorities as "Registered" contractors. It is important to understand that these licenses are granted to individuals, not companies. The individual licensee must then formally "qualify" a construction company with their license. This is what permits companies to operate as "licensed" contractors.
For a more comprehensive discussion on this topic please see our article at The Risks of Hiring a Contractor Without Vetting.

How does Contractor Fraud occur ?

Contractor fraud comes in many types and variations. In addition to many others it includes: 1) demanding full payment up front, 2) using verbal agreements as opposed to written, 3) using cleverly written agreements that deceptively hide information, 4) executing work on an unrelated permit, 5) failing to close a permit by final inspection, 6) claiming unexpected problems and requiring additional payment without evidence and documentation, 7) using substandard materials or materials other than what was agreed to in the contract, 8) manipulating insurance claims on restoration projects, 9) failure to pay subcontractors - thereby leaving the homeowner vulnerable to a lien on their home.

Are social media posts an accurate measure of past performance ?

Social Media posts can be reliable, perhaps 50% of the time. For the past 15 years this media has been heavily relied upon by companies and customers alike. It proved to be a fairly easy way to communicate and consume the message. These posts are also easily manipulated. Use this media with caution - and always in conjunction with other verified factual information.
It is perfectly acceptable, even expected, that a person or a company characterize itself in the most favorable light. There is a responsibility and a moral and legal red line that comes with that. Trust But Verify.

What are the best resources for gathering information on contractors ?

Neutral third-party sources that provide facts, as opposed to opinions, and without a vested interest in the outcome.

Where does Builder Check get the information for our Reports ?

Our reports are sourced from a combination of publicly available information and private inquiries. We use resources from the Florida Secretary of State, Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), County and Local permitting authorities, insurance companies, State and County Courts, direct contact with clients and vendors and other sources.

Why do our Reports include 3 prior permits from the contractor ?

1. It shows they are able and willing to work effectively with permitting authorities.
2. Makes a general showing that they complete what they start.
3. Suggests that they respect their customer by completing the final inspection.

How do I leverage my Builder Check Report in making my decision on a contractor ?

Use the information in the Report based on the totality of the Report, not just one fact. As an example, one isolated shortcoming may well be worth overlooking if a contractor has mitigated it. Only you can make that decision. Whether or not the Report seems entirely clear or shows issues for concern, you must still speak in person and candidly with the contractor. Please review our 10 Point Checklist for valuable suggestions and information regarding the entire process from the stakeholders perspective.
Builder Check is a neutral 3rd party providing factual information that can assist you in your due diligence effort. Your intent is to gather as much reliable information as you can and then to make a contractor decision based on your own best judgment.

What are my options if I have already been a victim of contractor fraud ?

We hope that you have not already experienced a bad contractor problem before arriving here. In the event that you have the following options are a good starting point:

1. Speak directly with your local permitting authority that issued the building permit. This can be valuable because you document it a a local level and in the location where it occured.
2. Contact DBPR directly -  850 487 1395
3. File a DBPR Complaint - https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/file-a-complaint/