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Verify the license
Look up the contractor's license number with your state board to confirm it's active and matches their name. Florida licenses can be checked at myfloridalicense.com.
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Check insurance coverage
Ask for a certificate of insurance showing current liability and workers' compensation. Call the insurer to confirm it's valid — not expired.
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Call references
Ask for the last 3–5 jobs and actually call them. Was it on time and on budget? Any surprises? Would they hire again?
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Review past work
Look at photos or, better, visit a completed project. Quality you can see in person tells you more than any sales pitch.
Tip: if a contractor hesitates to share their license, insurance, or references, treat that as your answer.