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CAUTION-- Red Flag Warnings

Warning signs that tell you this may be an unlicensed contractor
RED FLAGS to look out for when looking for a contractor

When home improvement companies solicit door-to-door. If this happens, call your police department. We have laws that prohibit Home Solicitation without a Permit (FS 501.055 (2)). Most licensed professionals are not going to go door-to-door. For your own safety,

don't allow anyone you don't know into your home. A good way to ask them to leave is to ask for written material and tell them you are not making a decision now. Have them leave the written material at the front door.
When companies are driving unmarked trucks or vans, and display out-of-state license plates.
When a contractor suggests you (the homeowner) obtain the permit. This tells you that the company is not licensed. This tactic is happening currently with unlicensed shutter companies.
If you are asked for a large upfront down payment and payments in cash.
When asked to agree to a long term start date. Unlicensed companies have been known to do this in an effort to get a large amount of money from several clients and then they leave town. The problem is you don't become suspicious until the agreed upon start date-- and the company is GONE!
If a company tells you that you can save hundreds of dollars in permit fees if you pull the permit, say no and get another contractor!
If the contractor tells you he can only work after hours and on weekends.
Scams to watch for: the driveway sealant scam or fix a problem they noticed on your roof. They can offer you a great deal because they have left over materials from another job down the street. Watch the movie TRAVELLER (1997) staring Bill Paxton as a con artist.

If you live in a multi-family building and you like your neighbors
Do not allow unlicensed contractors to work in a condominium. What happens in one unit adversely affects the other units within the building.

If you live in a multi-family structure you should know that most work will require permits
Contractors that can obtain building permits for this type of structure (over two stories) are Building Contractors and General Contractors.
Be sure to call you building department prior to shopping for contractors and ask what type of contractor you need. Keep this in mind when purchasing hurricane protection.

Insurance coverage for work that was done by an unlicensed contractor

Insurance company will not cover damages that were a result of an unlicensed contractor
Homeowners can be held liable for injuries sustained by unlicensed person(s) while doing work on your property.

Your insurance company will investigate who did the work that required the license, who obtained the permit, and they will hold you accountable if an unlicensed person did the work that caused damages.

Think about what happens when a plumbing problem goes bad from the 10th floor unit!!!