If you want the history of HB 735 and HD 1383, please read my previous article on these topics for important background and context. For this article, I wanted to highlight the most important aspects of the new law and how it may affect contractors across the state of Florida.

Please note: I am not a lawyer, and I am not offering legal advice or legal opinions. Contact your legal counsel for advice on how this new law affects you and your business.

Need to complete your CE requirements ASAP? Check out Gold Coast’s Florida Contractor Continuing Education Classes.

The New Law and What It Means for Florida Contractors

House Bill 1383 was signed into law and is now   in the Florida Statutes. Here are five important excerpts from the law, followed by some notes explaining what each excerpt could mean for Florida contractors.

Excerpt #1

“Be It Enacted by the Legislature of the State of Florida: Section 1. Paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of section 163.211, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:

163.211 Licensing of occupations preempted to state.— (2) PREEMPTION OF OCCUPATIONAL LICENSING TO THE STATE. The licensing of occupations is expressly preempted to the state, and this section supersedes any local government licensing requirement of occupations with the exception of the following: (a) Any local government that imposed licenses on occupations before January 1, 2021. However, any such local government licensing of occupations expires on July 1, 2024.”

This provision of the law extends the deadline for those local licenses that will be eliminated to July 1, 2024. If you hold a local license that will be preempted at that time, you will most likely have to renew your local license for a prorated year-long period. Contact your local municipality for clarification.

Excerpt #2

“Section 2. Subsection (6) of section 489.113, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:

489.113 Qualifications for practice; restrictions.—

(6)(a) The board shall, by rule, designate those types of specialty contractors which may be certified under this part. The limit of the scope of work and responsibility of a specialty contractor shall be established by the board by rule. However, a certified specialty contractor category established by board rule exists as a voluntary statewide licensing category and does not create a mandatory licensing requirement. Any mandatory statewide construction contracting licensure requirement may only be established through specific statutory provision.

(b) By July 1, 2024, the board shall, by rule, establish certified specialty contractor categories for voluntary licensure for all of the following:

1. Structural aluminum or screen enclosures.
2. Marine seawall work.
3. Marine bulkhead work.
4. Marine dock work.
5. Marine pile driving.
6. Structural masonry.
7. Structural prestressed, precast concrete work.
8. Rooftop solar heating installation.
9. Structural steel.
10. Window and door installation, including garage door installation and hurricane or windstorm protection.
11. Plaster and lath.
12. Structural carpentry.”

These additional specialty license categories are required by the law, but the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) recently opened Board Rule 61-G4 – Chapter 15. This chapter of the Board Rules lays out the definitions and requirements for each license type.

By opening this rule, they not only start the process for developing the rules for the new categories, but also potentially creating new categories above and beyond the legislative requirement.

Stay tuned to this issue. New licensing categories could be coming in 2024.

Excerpt #3

“Section 3. Paragraph (a) of subsection (4) of section 489.117, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:

489.117 Registration; specialty contractors.—

(4)(a)1. A person whose job scope does not substantially correspond to either the job scope of one of the contractor categories defined in s. 489.105(3)(a)-(o), or the job scope of one of the certified specialty contractor categories established by board rule, is not required to register with the board. A local government, as defined in s. 163.211, may not require a person to obtain a license, issued by the local government or the state, for a job scope which does not substantially correspond to the job scope of one of the contractor categories defined in s. 489.105(3)(a)-(o) and (q) or authorized in s. 489.1455(1), or the job scope of one of the certified specialty contractor categories established pursuant to s. 489.113(6).”

This is a very important provision of the new law. Basically, this section prohibits local governments from requiring a local license for any license category that is not available at the state level.

This is why there could be discussion for new categories added to Chapter 15 of the Board Rule above and beyond the legal mandate.

Excerpt #4

“A local government may not require a state or local license to obtain a permit for such job scopes. For purposes of this section, job scopes for which a local government may not require a license include, but are not limited to, painting; flooring; cabinetry; interior remodeling when the scope of the project does not include a task for which a state license is required; driveway or tennis court installation; handyman services; decorative stone, tile, marble, granite, or terrazzo installation; plastering; pressure washing; stuccoing; caulking; and canvas awning and ornamental iron installation.”

This was a huge issue with the previous law—the legislature did not address the permitting and licensing requirement issue. The new law now specifically states local governments cannot require a license to pull permits for scopes of work that fall under the preempted categories.

This allows unlicensed contractors to perform work legally and pull permits for the categories defined in the statue above. In other words, if you are a painting contractor, you would still be required to pull a permit for work over $2,500 as per Florida Building Code, but the local government cannot require you to be licensed to obtain the permit.

Insurance and local business tax requirements are still in effect (verify with your local municipality).

Excerpt #5

“3. A local government may continue to offer a license for veneer, including aluminum or vinyl gutters, siding, soffit, or fascia; rooftop painting, coating, and cleaning above three stories in height; or fence installation and erection if the local government imposed such a licensing requirement before January 1, 2021.”

This is another important provision of the new law. The legislature preserved the local licenses that include veneer, rooftop painting, and fencing. If you are licensed locally for these categories, your local government will most likely keep these license categories moving forward. They will not expire on July 1, 2024.

Verify with your local municipality, but this is great news for locally licensed contractors in these categories.

Guidance for Locally Licensed Florida Contractors by County

Each Florida county is still trying to determine how to proceed with the provisions of the new law. If you are not sure how your local government will proceed, please contact them directly and tell me what they say.

Some governments have provided guidance on this issue, others have not. I am happy to post updates for any county if you send me a link to the notice.

Here are links to a few Florida counties regarding their guidance for locally licensed contractors:

• Click Here for Miami-Dade County Guidance
• Click Here for Broward County Guidance
• Click Here for Palm Beach County Guidance
• Click Here for Hillsborough County Guidance
• Click Here for Charlotte County Guidance

Finally, click here for a link to the 2023 Legislative Session Final Report written by the Florida Association of Counties.

Written by Chris Clausing. Chris Clausing is the Program Director for Gold Coast School of Construction and Curriculum and Program Innovation for Colibri Group’s Construction Education Ecosystem.  Chris is a Certified General Contractor (CGC1515171) in the State of Florida with over 20 years’ experience in the Construction and Inspection industries. Chris also sits as a Consensus Committee Member for the IECC helping shape the energy codes of the future as well as a LEED GA. If you have any questions, please reach out to Chris directly at Contractor@GoldCoastSchools.com.

The post HB 1383 Signed into Law: How this Affects Locally Licensed Florida Contractors appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.

Get started now by taking advantage of Gold Coast’s building inspector course!

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

To take the examination for an inspector or plans examiner license, you must be at least 18 years of age and be of good moral character. You must also comply with one of the following eligibility requirements set by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (there are some additional options not listed here, but these requirements are the most common):

• Demonstrate a total of four (4) years of experience in construction or a related field, building code inspection, or plan review in your desired certification category as per 468.609(2)(c)(1), F.S.
• Demonstrate a combination of postsecondary education in the field of construction with hands-on experience amounting to three (3) years, with at least one (1) year of that experience in construction, building code inspection, or plan review, as per 468.609(2)(c)(2), F.S.
• Demonstrate a combination of technical education in the field of construction or a related area and practical experience of three (3) years, of which at least one (1) year involves construction, building code inspection, or plan review as per 468.609(2)(c)(3), F.S.

Step 2: Apply with the Florida Building Code Administrators and Inspectors Board (BCAIB)to Sit for Your Required Exams

To sit for the required exams for your Florida Building Inspector license, you must first apply with the BCAIB to get approval to sit for the tests. Visit the BCAIB website for a full list of experience requirements and . Once you obtain approval and are issued the Candidate ID number, you can schedule your exams with Pearson VUE and International Code Council (ICC).

Step 3: Pass Your Approved State Licensing Exams

The Florida Building Code Administrators and Inspectors Board (BCAIB) requires commercial building inspectors to become licensed by passing two exams to become an Inspector and a third exam to become a Plans Examiner.

You must pass all parts of the Standard Building Inspector and Plans Examiners state licensing exams:

• Part 1: Principles and Practices of Florida Law (Florida-specific exam)
  • 50 questions
  • 5 hours to complete
  • 70% or higher to pass
• Part 2: ICC Technical Code for Standard Building Inspectors (based on the ICC building codes) and Building Plans Examiner (if you want to be a plans reviewer)
  • 80 questions
  • 5 hours to complete
  • 75% or higher to pass (scores are based on a sliding scale)

The exams cover topics like Florida laws and rules, Accessibility and Energy Conservation code topics, International Building Code (IBC) knowledge, and knowledge of concrete and associated building materials.

Gold Coast’s Building Inspector License Exam Prep Course will not only help you pass your exams with flying colors, but also teach you everything you need to know to be a great building inspector. Gold Coast provides expert instructors and flexible learning options, with Monthly Livestream Prep Sessions during the week and weekends – check our schedule for exact dates and locations.

Step 4: Pass a Background Check

The Florida application for licensure as a Building Inspector asks a series of criminal history questions which are cross checked and verified. This is done as part of the licensing process to verify that applicants have an acceptable background to meet the basic qualifications for licensure.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Once you have met the above requirements and passed all required exams, you can apply for your license with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). As soon as your license is issued, you can begin your career as a building inspector in the state of Florida.

As a licensed building inspector in the State of Florida, you can anticipate a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. Recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the annual median compensation is approximately $60,000 for individuals in this profession within Florida. This represents an average, and actual earnings can vary depending on experience, level of education, and the specific sector of employment. Inspectors engaged within architectural, engineering, and associated service sectors typically command higher salaries compared to those serving in local government roles.

Ready to earn your Florida building inspector license and begin a rewarding and secure career? Gold Coast is here to help! Get started today by calling 800-732-9140

The post How to Become a Certified Building Inspector in Florida appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.

So, is it hard to pass the Florida Contractor Exam? The difficulty of the exam is subjective and largely depends on your preparation, understanding of the subject matter, and ability to navigate the reference books.

Gold Coast School of Construction offers the training and test prep you need to succeed. Find online general contractor courses to pass the exam in Florida.

Understanding the Florida Contractor Exam

The Florida Contractor Exam is an open-book exam divided into three parts: the Business and Finance Exam, the Contract Administration Exam, and the Project Management Exam. Each part focuses on a different aspect of the construction industry and Florida laws and rules, ensuring a well-rounded assessment of a candidate’s knowledge and skills.

Business and Finance Exam

This exam covers topics such as establishing contracts, managing administrative duties, and understanding financial management. It tests a candidate’s understanding of the business side of construction, ensuring that they can effectively manage a construction business.

Contract Administration Exam

This exam focuses on the specifics of contract administration in the construction industry. It covers topics such as contract negotiation, project scheduling, and project documentation. This exam ensures that a candidate can effectively manage contracts and handle the administrative aspects of a construction project.

Project Management Exam

This exam tests a candidate’s ability to manage construction projects. It covers topics such as project planning, project execution, and project control. This exam ensures that a candidate can effectively manage a construction project from start to finish.

Each of these exams is designed to ensure that licensed contractors possess the necessary knowledge
and skills to perform their duties effectively and safely. They cover a wide range of topics, from construction laws and regulations to building codes and construction techniques.

The Challenge of the Exam

The three parts of the Florida General Contractor Exam are considered challenging due to their breadth and depth. They require a solid understanding of both business principles and trade-specific knowledge. Each part is also known for its length:

• Business and Finance – 6.5 hours
• Contract Administration – 4.5 hours
• Project Management – 4.5 hours

Moreover, the three-part exam is not about memorization. These are open-book exams, which means you must become proficient in how to navigate the reference books. They test your ability to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios. This means that you need to understand the concepts thoroughly and be able to use them in practical situations presented on the tests.

How Many Questions Are on the Florida General Contractor Exam?

The Florida Contractor Exam consists of three tests with a total of 240 questions:

• Business and Finance – 120 questions
• Contract Administration – 60 questions
• Project Management – 60 questions

The Business and Finance, Contract Administration, and Project Management portions of the exam are usually taken on separate days. Each exam is proctored through a Pearson Vue testing center.

The Gold Coast School of Construction Exam Prep Program

To help candidates prepare for Florida Division I and Division II Contractor exams, Gold Coast School of Construction offers several popular exam prep programs. Our exam prep program is designed to provide comprehensive training for most Florida Contractor Exams.

The Gold Coast programs offer a variety of resources to help you prepare:

• Live class sessions every weeknight offered on campus or via Zoom
• Comprehensive study guides
• Unlimited practice exams
• Monthly weekend cram workshops
• On-Demand Video Library – watch recorded classes anytime 24/7
• All included in one low tuition price which is valid for 1 full year of access

The program is designed to cover all the topics that will be tested in the exams, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the Business and Finance Exam, the Contract Administration Exam, and the Project Management Exam. The Gold Coast program offers flexibility to accommodate different learning styles and schedules. It offers both in-person and Livestream Zoom classes plus On-Demand videos, allowing you to choose the option that works best.

The Gold Coast School of Construction Exam Prep program provides the necessary resources and training to help you prepare for the test effectively, even a general contractor exam simulator . Remember, the key to passing is not memorizing facts, but understanding how to efficiently navigate the reference books. Get started on your journey to a Florida Contractor’s license today.

Join our Livestream Open House to learn all about the exam prep program and everything you need to get started. Register now.

Written by Chris Clausing. Chris Clausing is the Program Director for Gold Coast School of Construction and Curriculum and Program Innovation for Colibri Group’s Construction Education Ecosystem.  Chris is a Certified General Contractor (CGC1515171) in the State of Florida with over 20 years of experience in the Construction and Inspection industries. Chris also sits as a Consensus Committee Member for the IECC helping shape the energy codes of the future as well as a LEED GA. If you have any questions, please reach out to Chris directly at Contractor@GoldCoastSchools.com.

The post Is It Hard to Pass the Florida Contractor Exam? appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.

Need to complete your CE requirements ASAP?

Check out Gold Coast’s Florida Contractor Continuing Education Classes.

Brief History of HB 735

First, let’s start with a little history: In 2021, the Florida legislature passed HB 735, which mandated the preemption of local licenses to the state, prohibiting local municipalities from requiring licenses to perform certain scopes of work. This bill went into effect July 1, 2021 and required local governments to comply starting July 1, 2023.

Among other things, HB 735 stated specifically, “A local government, as defined in s. 163.211, may not require a person to obtain a license for a job scope which does not substantially correspond to the job scope of one of the contractor categories defined in s. 489.105(3)(a)-(o) and (q) or authorized in s. 489.1455(1). For purposes of this section, job scopes for which a local government may not require a license include, but are not limited to, painting; flooring; cabinetry; interior remodeling; driveway or tennis court installation; handyman services; decorative stone, tile, marble, granite, or terrazzo installation; plastering; stuccoing; caulking; and canvas awning and ornamental iron installation.”

Unfortunately, HB 735 did not specifically address local government’s ability to require a permit for work that does not require a license. This oversight, of course, created chaos in the Florida construction industry for those local license holders affected by this rule change. If a painting contractor or a flooring contractor wants to perform work valued at over $2,500, as per the Florida Building Code, a permit could be required. But, if the license category for this type of work no longer exists, the owner of the company now has a problem. How can this company continue to do business if they cannot pull a permit without a contracting license after July 1, 2023?

This was a significant omission in the bill and caused many local license holders to either obtain a Certified Contractors license in a category offered at the state level, or risk going out of business after July 1, 2023, because local municipalities would no longer renew or issue those licenses but would still require permits for that scope of work. In addition, to add another layer of complexity, there are experience requirements for state-level Certified licensure, and many local license holders did not have the proper work history to qualify as a Certified Contractor in the category that would allow them to continue working.

That’s a short history of HB 735.

Enter HB 1383

In the recent legislative session, things started to happen to try and fix some of the issues created by the original bill. Enter HB 1383, which addressed the main issue of permitting requirements, but also added some additional provisions. This new bill, most notably, was passed with no dissenters in both the House (109 to 0) and Senate (38 to 0), which should be a clue as to how pressing this issue was for contractors—and voters—in Florida.

Regarding the permitting issue, HB 1383 states, “489.117, Florida Statutes, is amended to read: 489.117 Registration; specialty contractors. — 64 (4)(a)1. A person whose job scope does not substantially correspond to either the job scope of one of the contractor categories defined in s. 489.105(3)(a)-(o), or the job scope of one of the certified specialty contractor categories established by board rule, is not required to register with the board. A local government, as defined in s. 163.211, may not require a person to obtain a license, issued by the local government or the state, for a job scope which does not substantially correspond to the job scope of one of the contractor categories defined in s. 489.105(3)(a)-(o) and (q) or authorized in s. 489.1455(1), or the job scope of one of the certified specialty contractor categories established pursuant to s. 489.113(6). A local government may not require a state or local license to obtain a permit for such job scopes. For purposes of this section, job scopes for which a local government may not require a license include, but are not limited to, painting; flooring; cabinetry; interior remodeling when the scope of the project does not include a task for which a state license is required; driveway or tennis court installation; handyman services; decorative stone, tile, marble, granite, or terrazzo installation; plastering; pressure washing; stuccoing; caulking; and canvas awning and ornamental iron installation.”

There was specific language added for fencing, siding and roof coating and roof cleaning contractors: “A local government may continue to offer a license for veneer, including aluminum or vinyl gutters, siding, soffit, or fascia; rooftop painting, coating, and cleaning above three stories in height; or fence installation and erection if the local government imposed such a licensing requirement before January 1, 2021.” Now these contractors will be able to maintain their local licenses so long as the municipality offered that licensing category before July 1, 2021.

In addition to clarifying the permitting requirement and licensing categories affected, the bill also extended the effective date of the preemption provision for one full year, now effective July 1, 2024. The bill reads, “(2) PREEMPTION OF OCCUPATIONAL LICENSING TO THE STATE. —The licensing of occupations is expressly preempted to the state, and this section supersedes any local government licensing requirement of occupations with the exception of the following: (a) Any local government that imposed licenses on occupations before January 1, 2021. However, any such local government licensing of occupations expires on July 1, 2024.”

How Will HB 1383 Affect Contractor CE Requirements?

Like anything in life and legislature, there is the law of unintended consequences. For every new provision, there are always open questions. Personally, I wonder about the Continuing Education (CE) requirements for local license holders who thought their licenses were going away July 1, 2023.

Local Specialty and Registered licensed holders renew their licenses in odd years (this year – 2023) and each county has different requirements in terms of hours and types of education needed. Many of these contractors have no idea this new law has extended the preemption deadline, so they have not completed their CE requirements and have not applied to renew their licenses. If you are one of these contractors, I encourage you to reach out to the local municipality and ask how they plan to proceed. Also, the renewal would only be for one year, not two years since the law now becomes effective July 1, 2024. This is an issue on which the local governments will have to provide guidance for their local license holders.

If you need to complete your CE requirements, Gold Coast School of Construction is here to help. You can find classroom and online Florida Contractor Continuing Education Classes on our website.

What About the New Specialty Categories?

Yet another plot twist in the drama and entertainment that is the Florida legislative session: The bill requires the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) to create new Specialty categories at the state level for Registered contractors. The bill reads, “(b) By July 1, 2024, the board shall, by rule, establish certified specialty contractor categories for voluntary licensure for all of the following:

1. Structural aluminum or screen enclosures.
2. Marine seawall work.
3. Marine bulkhead work.
4. Marine dock work.
5. Marine pile driving.
6. Structural masonry.
7. Structural prestressed, precast concrete work.
8. Rooftop solar heating installation.
9. Structural steel.
10. Window and door installation, including garage door installation and hurricane or windstorm protection.
11. Plaster and lath.
12. Structural carpentry.”

The addition of these Certified Specialty categories is going to keep the CILB very busy over the next year or so. The amount of administrative procedure and board rule development is almost inconceivable. Will the CILB have these new rules ready by the new deadline? Only time will tell. Will the local governments make new rules regarding renewal or CE requirements for these categories that were supposed to go away in July 2023? Again, only time will tell.

Key Takeaways

Here are the biggest takeaways from HB 1383: 

1. The preemption deadline was extended to July 1, 2024 – local licenses that were going to be eliminated in July of this year will not be eliminated until July of 2024.
2. Additional language was added to allow the local licensure of fencing, siding, gutter, and roof coating and cleaning contractors.
3. New specialty categories will be created by the CILB that will allow a host of local license holders to obtain their state-level Certification or Registration.
4. The CE requirements for those local license holders that were to be preempted in July 2023 were not addressed in the bill. Contact your local municipality to find out if you must complete CE for 2023 to renew your local license.

As I mentioned at the very beginning of this article, I am not a lawyer, and I find this whole thing as confusing as you probably do. We are all in this together, so if you have insight into this process, or if I am wrong about any aspect of these new provisions, or if you are a Building Official or Administrator who has a plan for the preemption extension, or if you are a Florida Contractor and just don’t know what to do, please reach out to me at Contractor@GoldCoastSchools.com.

If you know how your local government will address the renewal and/or CE requirements for local licensure, please share so I can keep track of how each county is handling this issue. The more we discuss the process and share what municipalities are doing for local contractor licensing, the better prepared we can be for what’s to come on July 1, 2024.

I anticipate writing several more articles on this issue, so stay tuned and follow Gold Coast School of Construction on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates on Florida Contractor licensing.

Written by Chris Clausing. Chris Clausing is the Program Director for Gold Coast School of Construction and Curriculum and Program Innovation for Colibri Group’s Construction Education Ecosystem. Chris is a Certified General Contractor (CGC1515171) in the State of Florida with over 20 years of experience in the Construction and Inspection industries. Chris also sits as a Consensus Committee Member for the IECC helping shape the energy codes of the future as well as a LEED GA. If you have any questions, please reach out to Chris directly at Contractor@GoldCoastSchools.com.

The post What’s Going on with Florida Local Contractor Licenses and HB 1383?  appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements to Become a Home Inspector

Before you can pursue a home inspector license in Florida, you must be at least 18 years old, and you must be in good moral standing. There is no citizenship requirement for licensure in Florida.

How will you demonstrate your good moral character? When submitting your application (see Step 5 below), you will have to undergo a background check and submit fingerprints. These checks ensure that you have no criminal history that would disqualify you from obtaining a home inspector license.

Step 2: Complete an Approved 120-Hour Home Inspection Pre-Licensing Course

Gold Coast School of Construction offers an approved 120-Hour Home Inspection Pre-Licensing Course that is head-and-shoulders above the rest. The class is available on-campus or livestream via Zoom with a live instructor who is an experienced inspector and industry professional. If you really want to learn how to be a great home inspector, and not just satisfy the 120-hour requirement, this is the course for you. The instructor will cover topics such as:

• Structure
• Electrical systems
• HVAC systems
• Roof covering
• Plumbing systems
• Interior components
• Exterior components
• Site conditions that affect the structure

The classes are held on consecutive Friday, Saturday, and Sunday sessions from 8:00am –6:00pm. There are four weekends required to complete the course. Gold Coast also offers a fifth weekend that includes the Wind Mitigation Training class, the Exam Prep Workshop, and the On-Campus Proctored State Exam. Application Assistance is also offered, if needed, so this is a one-stop shop for your Florida home inspector license.

Ready to enroll in the Gold Coast Home Inspection Pre-Licensing Course? Get details on cost and session dates.

Step 3: Obtain the Required Liability Insurance

Before you can obtain your home inspector license, you must secure general liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $300,000. This insurance will protect you from potential financial losses arising from accidents, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents during your work.

Step 4: Pass an Approved State Licensing Exam

After completing the 120-hour pre-licensing course, you will need to pass an approved state examination. There are multiple options in Florida for state-approved exam providers. Gold Coast School of Construction offers an open-book, Florida-specific exam consisting of multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge of home inspection principles and practices.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Once you have met the education, insurance, and examination requirements, you can submit your application for a home inspector license to the Florida DBPR. The application process includes:

• Filling out the required application form
• Providing proof of your completed pre-licensing course
• Attesting that you have obtained general liability insurance
• Submitting a copy of your exam results
• Paying the application fee
• Obtaining a background check and fingerprints

If you would like to have your application done by a professional, Gold Coast School of Construction has a dedicated Application Services Team that can help.

Step 6: Maintain and Renew Your License

Once you receive your Florida home inspector license, you must meet certain requirements to maintain and renew it. Licenses must be renewed every two years, and during each renewal period, you will need to complete 14 hours of continuing education from an approved provider. Gold Coast School of Construction has state-approved CE programs that will satisfy this requirement. Additionally, you must maintain your general liability insurance coverage while your license is active.

Overview: How to Become a Home Inspector

Becoming a licensed home inspector in Florida involves meeting specific education, examination, and insurance requirements, as well as demonstrating good moral character. By following these guidelines and completing each step in the process, you will be well on your way to a rewarding career as a home inspector in the Sunshine State. Remember, staying current with industry developments and continuing your education will help ensure your success and maintain your professional standing in this ever-evolving field.

If you are ready to get that license, contact Gold Coast School of Construction today! Get started.

Written by Chris Clausing. Chris Clausing is the Program Director for Gold Coast School of Construction and Curriculum and Program Innovation for Colibri Group’s Construction Education Ecosystem. Chris is a Certified General Contractor (CGC1515171) in the State of Florida with over 20 years of experience in the Construction and Inspection industries. Chris also sits as a Consensus Committee Member for the IECC helping shape the energy codes of the future as well as a LEED GA. If you have any questions, please reach out to Chris directly at Contractor@GoldCoastSchools.com.

The post How to Become a Licensed Home Inspector in Florida appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.

Want to get licensed as a Florida home inspector? Check out Gold Coast School of Construction.

Most Common Home Inspection Problems to Look For

1. Structural Issues

Your primary responsibility as a home inspector is to assess the structural integrity of a property. Be prepared to encounter foundation cracks, uneven settling, and damaged or missing support beams. These problems can lead to costly repairs and safety concerns if not addressed. Familiarize yourself with signs of structural issues such as sloping floors, cracks in walls or ceilings, and doors or windows that don’t open or close properly.

2. Roof Problems

Roof issues are frequently discovered during home inspections. Damaged or missing shingles, inadequate flashing, and signs of water damage or leaks are all indicators of potential problems. As a future home inspector, it is crucial to develop a keen eye for these signs and understand how to maintain and repair roofing systems.

3. Plumbing Issues

From leaky pipes and outdated materials to inadequate water pressure, plumbing issues can lead to water damage, mold growth, and other potentially serious problems. Learn to recognize visible leaks, signs of water damage, and the functionality of fixtures and appliances. Familiarize yourself with different types of plumbing materials and systems and their respective maintenance needs.

4. Electrical System Concerns

Electrical system issues can pose serious safety risks, such as fires and electrocution. As an aspiring home inspector, it is essential to understand the complexities of electrical systems, including electrical panels, grounding techniques, and wiring materials. Learn to identify outdated, overloaded, or improperly installed systems and recommend that a licensed electrician address any concerns.

5. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems

A thorough understanding of HVAC systems is crucial for any home inspector. Familiarize yourself with the various types of systems, their components, and their maintenance needs. Learn to evaluate the age and condition of HVAC systems, ensuring they are functioning efficiently and safely. Develop a routine for checking air filters, ductwork, and other essential components during your inspections.

6. Poor Drainage and Grading

Drainage and grading issues can result in water intrusion, foundation problems, and landscaping damage. As a future home inspector, you should be able to identify signs of standing water, water intrusion in basements or crawlspaces, and improper grading around the foundation. Understanding the principles of proper drainage and grading will help you protect homeowners from costly repairs.

As an aspiring home inspector, it is crucial to be well-prepared for the challenges you will face in the field. By familiarizing yourself with the most common home inspection problems, you will be better equipped to provide accurate assessments and valuable insights to potential home buyers. Remember, your role is essential in ensuring the safety and satisfaction of homeowners, and your expertise will make a significant impact on their lives.

Interested in becoming a licensed Florida home inspector? Gold Coast School of Construction offers an approved 120-Hour Home Inspection Pre-Licensing Course with flexible learning options. Get started now.

Written by Chris Clausing. Chris Clausing is the Program Director for Gold Coast School of Construction and Curriculum and Program Innovation for Colibri Group’s Construction Education Ecosystem. Chris is a Certified General Contractor (CGC1515171) in the State of Florida with over 20 years of experience in the Construction and Inspection industries. Chris also sits as a Consensus Committee Member for the IECC helping shape the energy codes of the future as well as a LEED GA. If you have any questions, please reach out to Chris directly at Contractor@GoldCoastSchools.com.

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1. OSHA’s jurisdiction: OSHA inspects most private sector workplaces and some public sector workplaces. If you are unsure whether your workplace falls under OSHA’s jurisdiction, you can check online or contact OSHA directly.
2. Reasons for inspection: Inspections can be triggered by a complaint, accident, or referral, but they can also be conducted as part of OSHA’s regular inspection program.
3. Right to representation: Employers have the right to have a representative present during the inspection. This can be a Project Manager, Superintendent, Safety Officer, or any other designated individual.
4. Employee involvement: Employees have the right to participate in the inspection and raise any health or safety concerns they have.
5. Document request: OSHA may request to see your workplace’s injury and illness logs, as well as any other relevant documents. Be sure to have these readily available. These would include the 300, 300A, and 301.
6. Walk-around inspection: The inspector will conduct a walk-around inspection of the workplace to identify any potential hazards. Be prepared to accompany the inspector and provide any necessary information.
7. Citations: If the inspector identifies any violations, you may receive citations and proposed penalties. You have the right to contest the citations and proposed penalties within 15 days.
8. Abatement: You’re required to correct any violations identified during the inspection within a specified timeframe. OSHA may return to verify that the corrections have been made.
9. Post-inspection procedures: After the inspection, you should take steps to prevent future violations and ensure a safe and healthy workplace for your employees.
10. Record-keeping: After the inspection, keep a record of any findings or violations noted by the inspector, as well as any steps taken to correct them. This information will be useful in case of future inspections or if you need to contest a citation.

With proper preparation, you can ensure a successful OSHA inspection and help maintain a safe and healthy workplace for your employees.

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Florida General Contractor License Via Reciprocity

Endorsement is a potential option for out-of-state Contractors, including Georgia General Contractors, who are looking to expand their business to Florida or for those who have recently moved to Florida and want to open a business. That said, this path to licensure is very narrow with strict requirements. There are a few endorsement options out-of-state Contractors can pursue. Regardless of the endorsement path selected, all applicants must pass the Florida-specific Business & Finance Exam plus complete a Florida Building Code online class. In addition, any potential endorsement applicant must have held their out-of-state license in valid and current status for a minimum of 10 years. Florida provides three general routes to licensure through endorsement:

1. Endorsement through Reciprocity:
   This is a route available to Contractors initially licensed as General Contractors in Louisiana, Mississippi and North Carolina. Florida has formal reciprocity agreements with these three states, which means the Trade exam requirements are waived. Remember, you still must pass the Business & Finance Exam plus complete an approved Florida Building Code course.
2. Endorsement through Examination:
   There are actually two options here: First option, the State of Florida accepts the NASCLA Commercial Contractor exam in lieu of the two Trade exams typically required. If you obtained your initial license by passing the NASCLA exam, that transcript can be used to satisfy the Trade exam requirements in Florida.Second option, if you can prove to the CILB that your State of initial licensure exam was substantially equivalent to the Florida state licensure exams, this may be a path available to you. However, only California has been recognized by the CILB as a candidate for General Contractor endorsement through examination equivalency. This path is very narrow and difficult to prove.
3. Endorsement through Licensure:
   Even if Florida does not have a formal reciprocity agreement with another state, such as Georgia, the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) will consider applications for endorsement through licensure. The key to this path is that the out-of-state license must ‘line-up’ exactly with the license type you are seeking in Florida. For example, as a General Contractor in another state, you would have to be able to build any commercial or residential structure without a height, square footage or contract value limitation, which is equivalent to the Certified General Contractor (CGC) license in Florida. And the experience requirements to obtain that initial licensure must also align with the experience requirements for Florida.The endorsement through licensure specifically for General Contractors in Georgia becomes a little more complicated. The license scopes align, that is not the problem. However, to obtain your CGC license in Florida, you must have experience supervising at least one project 4-stories or higher. The Georgia General Contractors license does not have this requirement, so the CILB does not recognize it as equivalent to the CGC. Instead, the CILB has issued license endorsement approvals for Georgia General Contractors as Certified Building Contractors (CBC) because as a CBC, you can build commercial or residential structures up to 3 stories, with no height requirement for the projects you supervised. Again, you are still required to pass the Florida-specific Business & Finance Exam and complete a Florida Building Code class. In addition, you would list your work history on the license application to make sure you have the experience required by the State of Florida.Once you have determined that you meet the qualifications for licensure through endorsement, passed the required Business & Finance Exam and the Florida Building Code class, you can apply for a Certified Contractors license in Florida. The process involves submitting an application, paying the required fees, and providing proof of your current license, summary of your relevant work history, and proof of insurance coverage. It’s important to remember that while licensure through endorsement can save you time and effort, there is no guarantee the CILB will approve your application.

If you have any additional questions on the endorsement, the application or the exam process, please reach out to Gold Coast School of Construction at www.GoldCoastSchools.com or call 1-800-732-9140 or send us an email at Contractor@GoldCoastSchools.com. We have helped thousands of students from across the county obtain licensure in the State of Florida, and we look forward to helping you.

** Chris Clausing is the Program Director for Gold Coast School of Construction and Curriculum and Program Innovation for Colibri Group’s Construction Education Ecosystem.  Chris is a Certified General Contractor (CGC1515171) in the State of Florida with over 20 years’ experience in the Construction and Inspection industries. Chris also sits as a Consensus Committee Member for the IECC helping shape the energy codes of the future. If you have any questions, please reach out to Chris directly at cclausing@goldcoastschools.com.

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Here are the requirements directly from Florida Statute 489.111: Licensure by examination.

1. Any person who desires to be certified shall apply to the department in writing.
2. A person shall be eligible for licensure by examination if the person:
   1. Is 18 years of age;
   2. Is of good moral character; and
   3. Meets eligibility requirements according to one of the following criteria:
      1. Has received a baccalaureate degree from an accredited 4-year college in the appropriate field of engineering, architecture, or building construction and has 1 year of proven experience in the category in which the person seeks to qualify. For the purpose of this part, a minimum of 2,000 person-hours shall be used in determining full-time equivalency. An applicant who is exempt from passing an examination under s. 489.113(1) is eligible for a license under this section.
      2. Has a total of at least 4 years of active experience as a worker who has learned the trade by serving an apprenticeship as a skilled worker who is able to command the rate of a mechanic in the particular trade or as a foreman who is in charge of a group of workers and usually is responsible to a superintendent or a contractor or his or her equivalent; provided, however, that at least 1 year of active experience shall be as a foreman.
      3. Has a combination of not less than 1 year of experience as a foreman and not less than 3 years of credits for any accredited college-level courses; has a combination of not less than 1 year of experience as a skilled worker, 1 year of experience as a foreman, and not less than 2 years of credits for any accredited college-level courses; or has a combination of not less than 2 years of experience as a skilled worker, 1 year of experience as a foreman, and not less than 1 year of credits for any accredited college-level courses. All junior college or community college-level courses shall be considered accredited college-level courses.

The State of Florida does not require applicants to have met these requirements before actually passing the required state exams. However, you must meet all these requirements before applying for your license. You have 4 years from successful completion of the exam process to obtain the minimum experience required and apply for the Certified Contractor’s license.

The educational and experience requirements for licensure as a Certified Florida Contractor can be confusing. If you have any questions about the process or would like information on which license may be right for you, please reach out to Gold Coast School of Construction at www.GoldCoastSchools.com or call 1-800-732-9140 or send us an email at Contractor@GoldCoastSchools.com. We have helped thousands of students from across the county obtain licensure in the State of Florida, and we look forward to helping you.

** Chris Clausing is the Program Director for Gold Coast School of Construction and Curriculum and Program Innovation for Colibri Group’s Construction Education Ecosystem.  Chris is a Certified General Contractor (CGC1515171) in the State of Florida with over 20 years’ experience in the Construction and Inspection industries. Chris also sits as a Consensus Committee Member for the IECC helping shape the energy codes of the future. If you have any questions, please reach out to Chris directly at cclausing@goldcoastschools.com.

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Are you considering becoming a general contractor? You might wonder what the requirements are and how difficult it is.

While finding the information you need might feel like a challenge, it doesn’t have to be. Read this guide to answer the question: What are the requirements for a general contractors license in Florida today?

General Contractors License Requirements 

First, you’ll need to be at least 18 years old. Next, you’ll need a credit score of at least 660 or complete a 14-hour financial responsibility course.

A fingerprint scan and background check are also required. You’ll need to study for and pass the Business & Finance, Contract Administration and Project Management exams.

Once you pass these three tests, you’ll need to secure property and liability insurance as well as workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees.

You will need to show a minimum of 4 years of field experience in the license type you want to obtain or up to 3 years of college credit or military service plus one year of experience.

Liability and Property Insurance

The Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) requires that construction businesses have minimum levels of general liability and property coverage. You may also require additional lines of insurance for your operations such as Builder’s Risk, Vehicle and Equipment coverage and Completed Operations coverage. Speak with a licensed insurance Agent that specializes in the construction industry.

The Examinations

To obtain a Certified General Contractors license, the candidate must pass three separate exams:

1. Business and Finance: This is a 120-question exam that covers Florida laws and rules, general accounting principles and contracts. You have 6.5 hours to complete this exam.
2. Contract Administration: Depending on the type of contractors license you want to obtain, this exam consists of up to 60 questions with 4.5 hours to complete. This exam covers the principles of contracts / subcontracts, plan reading, and building code.
3. Project Management: Depending on the type of contractors license you want to obtain, this exam consists of up to 60 questions with 4.5 hours to complete. This exam covers means and methods of construction, OSHA, general construction knowledge concepts, plan reading, and building code.

These exams are offered daily through Pearson Vue testing centers. You have to register with the State of Florida prior to scheduling your exams and pay all required fees.

Upon Passing

Once you pass all the required exams, you can apply for your license as a sole proprietor or you can qualify your business entity during initial license application. During the application process, you will submit all the required documentation and pay the application fee. The Board must make a decision on your licensure within 90 days of receipt of the application.

What Can a General Contractor Do?

Once licensed as a certified general contractor, you can build, renovate or remodel commercial or residential structures with no height, square footage or dollar value restrictions. This is the highest level of contractor licensure in the State of Florida. General Contractors can also install and perform warranty repairs of wood shakes, shingles, or shingle roofing on new buildings of their construction.

You can also construct main sanitary sewer collection, water distribution, and storm collection systems. General Contractors can change or construct the structural components of a building or structure. You can excavate, grade, grub, and perform clearing for any site work for construction projects.

There are some limitations to the Certified General Contractors license. It does not allow you to perform the following work:

• Air conditioning / Mechanical
• Plumbing
• Gas
• Electrical
• Swimming (non-structural)
• Roofing

Instead, you’ll need to subcontract this work to subcontractors licensed in those trades.

Trade Exam Exemption Explained

The State of Florida does provide potential exemption from the Trade exams if you meet certain criteria. If you have a Bachelor’s degree in building construction from an accredited four-year college or a related degree approved by the board rule and a GPA of 3.0 or higher, you may be exempt from taking the Contract Administration and Project Management exams.

Construction Experience Requirements 

Applicants for the Certified General Contractors license must have experience in 4 of the categories listed below. You must also have experience supervising construction of a building 4-stories or higher.

The areas include:

• Steel erection
• Foundation/Slabs higher than 20,000 square feet
• Precast concrete structures
• Masonry walls
• Elevated slabs
• Column erection
• Formwork for structural reinforced concrete

Preparing for Your Exams

Finding the right school to help you prepare for the General Contractor exams is critical. These exams are difficult and cover a vast amount of materials and reference books. Choose a program that has a history of helping tens of thousands of students pass their exams and obtain their license.

If you are ready to get started, Gold Coast School or Construction can help! Check out our various programs today to help you be ready for the General Contractor exams to get certified.

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