Get them wrong, and you risk code violations, cost overruns, and delays. Get them right, and scheduled properly, and your project flows much more smoothly. 

In this article, you’ll learn what MEP drawings are, what components they include, why they’re so critical in Florida, common problems, best practices, and how Gold Coast School of Construction can help you get this key skill under your belt. 

What are MEP Drawings?

MEP drawings are comprehensive technical drawings and plans that include the design of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. They show the location and installation methods of such systems in buildings. They’re what installers and inspectors are supposed to be looking at. Moreover, they provide system design support, facilitate designing for building code adherence, and determine the sequence of construction.

Architectural drawings emphasize appearance and space, while structural drawings detail load-bearing members like beams and columns. MEPs are the systems that make a building usable, including ventilation, power, and water. 

Components of MEP Drawings

Here are the main parts you’ll typically see in MEP drawings (and sometimes more): 

Why are MEP Drawings Important for Florida Contractors?

The state of Florida presents unique difficulties for builders to overcome. The knowledge of these factors will assist you in preventing unexpected situations. 

• The state of Florida implements new mandatory building codes which become mandatory for all construction projects. The 2023 Florida Building Code (8th Edition) contains all necessary changes from the International Building Code (IBC) and Florida-specific requirements. The current code version must be included in all MEP drawings, which contractors create. 

• The combination of hot weather, humid conditions, stormy weather, and flooding risks requires designers to consider how these factors impact HVAC system size and electrical safety as well as material selection and plumbing system performance. The design process requires consideration of these environmental stress factors.  

• The authorities in Florida require complete and precise MEP drawings for permit approval and adherence to these drawings for inspections. The absence of clear details in drawings leads to an extended permit review process and time consuming and costly design modifications. The documentation needs to present load calculations and display clear venting and drainage slopes and include complete electrical panel schedules. 

• The Florida construction market shows rising demand and increasing complexity because new residential building permits rose by 6% during Q1 2025 according to available data. The rising number of construction projects leads to increased market competition, which results in more detailed MEP coordination requirements. 

Common Challenges Contractors Face with MEP Drawings

Knowing what tends to go wrong can help you avoid pitfalls. 

Challenges that can arise regarding MEP drawings include: 

• Misinterpretation of symbols or abbreviations in drawings; dimension errors. 

• Conflicts between MEP and structural/architectural systems (ducts colliding with beams, plumbing interfering with framing, etc.). These “clashes” often show up in the field rather than on paper, causing rework.  

• Unfamiliarity with the Florida Building Code changes, especially recent ones, leading to rejections by permitting authorities. 

• On‐site conditions that differ from what the drawings assume (e.g. existing utilities, site elevation, unforeseen obstructions). 

• Projects that don’t keep as‐built drawings up to date, making future maintenance, repairs, or renovations harder. 

Best Practices for Contractors Working with MEP Drawings

You can gain more control over your projects by following these steps. They’ll help you avoid rework, delays, and surprise costs. 

1. Review Drawings Early 

• Before you commit to price or schedule, get hold of full MEP drawings. 

• Ask questions if anything is unclear. Better to pause and clarify than to waste time later. Use Tools for Coordination 

• BIM (Building Information Modeling) helps in 3D visualization so you can see if systems interfere (“clash detection”). 

• Digital plan review tools for sharing among subcontractors, engineers, and architects. 

2. Stay On Top of Code Changes 

• Know which edition of the Florida Building Code applies to your project. Use updated code books or online resources. 

• Pay special attention to mechanical, plumbing, and electrical standards, hurricane‐resistance, flood zone requirements, and energy efficiency criteria. 

3. Collaborate Closely Across Disciplines 

• Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineers should talk to structural and architectural teams. 

• Regular coordination meetings help catch conflicts early. 

• Contractors should also keep in contact with local permit authorities to know expectations. 

4. Keep Revision Control 

• Make sure you work off the most current version of the drawings. 

• If changes happen, update all stakeholders and documents. 

• Keep precise as‐built drawings after installation—this will save future headaches. 

Florida-Specific Tips and Reminders

• Sealing and Stamping: MEP drawings often must be signed and sealed by licensed Florida engineers. If not, permits may be rejected. 

• Flood and Wind Zone Considerations: If your site is in a flood zone or hurricane-prone area, mechanical equipment, ductwork, etc., may need special elevation, anchoring, or resistance specs. 

• Permitting Variations by County/City: Even though Florida has state codes, local jurisdictions may add requirements. Always check with the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for your county/city. 

How Gold Coast School of Construction Helps Contractors Master MEP Drawings

You don’t have to figure all this out alone. Gold Coast provides training in reading and interpreting construction plans, including MEP drawings.  

Here’s what you’ll gain: 

• Hands-on instruction in how to read mechanical, electrical, plumbing schematics and symbols. 

• Practice with real code books (including Florida building code) so you’re prepared for what inspectors and permitting authorities expect. 

• Guidance in using modern digital tools (BIM, plan review) for coordination and clash detection. 

• Support with plan reading skills that help you estimate costs more accurately and avoid surprises. 

Want to sharpen your skills? Check out Gold Coast’s Construction Florida Construction Plan Reading course. It’s designed so you leave confidence in your ability to read, interpret, and apply MEP drawings in Florida conditions. 

Improve Your MEP Knowledge Now

MEP drawings aren’t just lines on paper. They’re the roadmap for how your building breathes, lights up, runs water, and powers up, and how it stands up to Florida’s climate and codes. Contractors who understand and master MEP drawings avoid delays, costly retries, code trouble, and unhappy clients. 

Take the time to review early, use the right tools, stay current with code, coordinate across all disciplines, and keep your drawings updated. You’ve got this. And Gold Coast is here to support your journey in becoming a contractor who knows MEP inside and out. 

The post What are MEP Drawings and What Do Contractors Need to Know About Them appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.

For a savvy real estate agent, this seasonal migration is more than just a line at your favorite brunch spot; it’s a massive business opportunity. If you prepare now, you can turn this temporary influx into a steady stream of high-dollar listings and long-term clients. 

This guide will show you how to build a powerful lead generation engine that capitalizes on snowbird season. We’ll cover everything from local SEO to digital retargeting so you can attract seasonal buyers and turn them into lasting business contacts. 

Key Takeaways 

• Prep Before They Arrive: Your lead generation efforts for snowbirds should start months before they land in Florida. Building a strong digital presence now ensures you’re visible when they start searching. 

• Think Beyond the Season: Treat every interaction with a snowbird as an opportunity for a long-term relationship. Today’s seasonal renter could be tomorrow’s second-home buyer or a source for future referrals. 

• Digital Is Your Best Friend: Snowbirds often begin their property search from their home state. A robust digital strategy, including local SEO and targeted social media ads, is crucial for reaching them early. 

• Become the Local Expert: Position yourself as the go-to resource for everything in your market, from Delray to Naples. Providing value beyond real estate builds trust and makes you a memorable presence. 

Build Your Brand Before They Fly South 

Your brand is your foundation. Before you can attract seasonal buyers, you need a professional and trustworthy online presence. Most snowbirds will start their search online, often months before they even pack their bags. You need to be visible when they do. 

Think of your brand as your digital storefront. Is it inviting? Does it clearly communicate your expertise? 

Website 

Ensure your website is modern, mobile-friendly, and easy to navigate. It should feature high-quality photos, client testimonials, and valuable content about the local market. 

Social media 

Be active on social media platforms where your target audience spends their time. Share insights about the Florida lifestyle, highlight community events, and showcase properties. Your goal is to become the face of your local market. 

Professional headshots 

Invest in professional photos. Your profile picture is often the first impression you make. Make it a good one. 

Optimize For The “Near Me” Searches 

As snowbirds plan their seasonal escape, they’ll likely start their search for everything local, including real estate agents, long before they even arrive in Florida. Optimizing your online presence for local search is non-negotiable. 

Master local SEO 

Local Search Engine Optimization (SEO) helps you appear in searches like “real estate agent in Naples” or “best realtor in Delray Beach.” 

• Google Business Profile: Claim and fully optimize your free Google Business Profile. Fill out every section, add photos, and encourage past clients to leave reviews. This is one of the most powerful tools for local visibility. 

• Local Keywords: Weave location-specific keywords throughout your website content, blog posts, and social media. Think like a buyer: what terms would they use? Include neighborhood names, popular landmarks, and phrases like “winter homes for rent” or “vacation home in Florida.” 

• Create Local Content: Write blog posts or create videos about topics that interest snowbirds. Examples include “The Best Golf Communities in South Florida,” “A Guide to Waterfront Dining in Your Area,” or “Top 5 Reasons to Buy a Second Home in Florida.” 

Engage With Digital And Social Media Strategies 

Your digital strategy is how you’ll actively reach out to potential snowbird clients, both before and during their stay in Florida. 

Get smart with social media 

Don’t just post listings. Share content that highlights the Florida lifestyle your snowbird audience desires. 

• Video Tours: Create walk-throughs of properties, neighborhood tours, and videos highlighting local amenities. Video content performs exceptionally well and gives out-of-state buyers a real feel for the area. 

• Targeted Ads: Use Facebook and Instagram ads to target users based on location, age, and interests. You can target people in northern states who have shown interest in real estate or moving to Florida. 

• Engage Authentically: Respond to comments, answer questions, and participate in local online groups. Position yourself as a helpful and knowledgeable resource. 

Do you need help with your website and social media strategies? Leverage the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Earn your Real Estate AI Specialist certification to learn how to use AI tools effectively and grow your real estate business. This certification will equip you with the skills to automate repetitive tasks, optimize marketing campaigns, and provide personalized experiences for clients, giving you a competitive edge in the industry.  

Turn Conversations Into Conversions 

Once a lead comes in, the real work begins. Snowbirds are often weighing a big life decision, so your approach should be more consultative than salesy. 

Have the investor conversation 

Many snowbirds are interested in purchasing a second home that can also serve as an investment property. Be prepared to discuss the financial aspects of the project. 

• Understand Rental Potential: Know the short-term and long-term rental market in your area. Be ready to provide data on potential rental income, occupancy rates, and management costs. 

• Connect with Experts: Build a network of trusted professionals, including property managers, accountants, and attorneys who specialize in real estate. Offering these connections adds immense value. 

• Talk Long-Term Value: Discuss the potential for property appreciation and the long-term benefits of owning real estate in a high-demand area like Florida. 

Retarget your leads 

Not every lead will be ready to buy immediately. Digital retargeting keeps your brand in front of them after they’ve visited your website or engaged with your content. It’s a gentle, persistent reminder that you’re there to help when they’re ready. Set up retargeting ads on social media and Google to stay top of mind. 

Turn Short-Term Visitors Into Long-Term Clients 

Snowbird season is a golden opportunity to grow your real estate business. By building a strong brand, mastering digital marketing, and providing exceptional value, you can create a lead generation engine that brings in business year after year. Start preparing now and get ready to turn this seasonal rush into a sustainable pipeline of high-dollar snowbird listings and loyal clients. 

Want to make the most of snowbird season and truly capitalize on this unique opportunity? Starting with Gold Coast School’s commission calculator is a fantastic way to understand your potential. This tool can help you visualize how many seasonal inquiries can truly transform into lasting client relationships.  

Beyond just conversions, our “Zero to Pipeline” webinar is specifically designed to show you practical strategies to nurture those short-term visitors into valuable, long-term clients who will not only buy but also refer others. It’s about building a sustainable foundation for your business. 

Watch a Replay of Our “Zero to Pipeline” Webinar 

The post Florida Agents: Warm Up Your Snowbird Lead Gen Engine appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.

In this blog, we’ll look at what building inspectors earn across Florida, how pay varies by region and experience, and why getting licensed pays off.  

The Statewide Salary Snapshot 

The salary range for building inspectors in Florida shows varied values according to different sources. Although most data indicates that the average yearly income ranges between $50,000 and $90,000 before factoring overtime pay or bonuses.  

For example: 

• Indeed (August 2025): average $68,954 per year (range $46,372 low to $102,534 high). 

• ZipRecruiter (August 2025): averaging approximately $51,474 per year, with those in the 25th–75th percentile earning about $40,000–$60,000 and the top 15%-20% averaging about $70,000. 

• CareerExplorer (2021 average): $60,670 per year, ranging widely from around $37,100 at the lower end to $97,320 at the higher end. 

• GovSalaries: average $66,298 year (25th–75th from $55,437 to $76,746), and the top 10% earning $116,201 per year. 

Regardless of source, Florida building inspectors typically make a decent salary, which can be largely impacted by location, years of experience, employer, overtime work and bonuses. 

Regional Variations Across Florida 

As with most jobs, location matters. Inspectors make more in higher-cost areas or strong job markets. For instance, the average pay for inspectors in Fort Myers is around $69,800 per year (Indeed) and about $54,000–$90,000 on GovSalaries (averaging $74,820).  

In comparison, data from ZipRecruiter notes cities like Ocala and Orlando average in the mid-$60,000s, with about $50,000 at the 25th percentile and as much as $88,000 at the 90th percentile.  

Large urban counties (Miami-Dade, Broward) and growth areas (like Tampa and Orlando metro) also end up tending to pay at or above the state average. Many of these discrepancies are shaped by local demand, cost of living, and government budgets. 

What Drives Salary Differences? 

Several factors influence pay for Florida’s building inspectors: 

Experience/Seniority:  

As in most fields, pay increases with experience. CareerExplorer’s Florida data show entry-level inspectors starting in the $37,000–$47,000 range and mid-career inspectors near $60,670 (median). Senior or highly specialized inspectors can earn substantially more (up to $97,000 at the high end). In practice, inspectors with a decade or more on the job or those who move into supervisory roles, routinely reach the upper end of the pay range. 

Job Title/Role  

Higher titles pay more. For instance, ZipRecruiter data indicate that Building Officials (the managerial counterparts to line inspectors) average about $73,343 per year, which is roughly 42.5% higher than the average inspector ($51,474). In other words, stepping up to a chief inspector or code enforcement role can boost pay by tens of thousands.Employer Type 

City and county agencies often set pay scales that rise with tenure, while private-sector consulting or inspection firms may pay differently. Some municipalities stand out: for example, Government payroll data shows t Coral Gables paying building inspectors more than $104,000 a year on average, and Boca Raton around $72,837. In general, affluent or fast-growing localities (South Florida, Naples/Bonita area, etc.) tend to have higher top-end salaries. 

Certifications & Skills  

Holding specialized certifications – especially being a licensed Plans Examiner in addition to an Inspector – raises your value. Inspectors who can both conduct field inspections and review construction plans are far more valuable to employers. Gold Coast School of Construction and ICC-endorsed credentials (such as fire inspector, accessibility inspector, etc.) can also expand career options and pay. 

Becoming a Building Inspector in Florida: Steps & Resources 

To capitalize on these salaries, you’ll need the proper Florida license. The basic path is to meet the experience requirement, apply for the licensing exam, and pass the state tests. Key points (with Gold Coast School of Construction course support) include: 

• Meet eligibility: You must be at least 18 years old, of good moral character, and have several years of construction experience. Florida law generally requires 4 years of full-time work in construction, building code inspection, or plan review. (You can substitute a combination of technical education plus experience to total 3-4 years.) These prerequisites ensure you have the practical background to understand building codes. 

• Apply for exams: Submit your application to the Florida Building Code Administrators & Inspectors Board (BCAIB). Once approved, you’ll schedule the required exams. 

• Pass the state licensing exams: Florida requires two exams for a commercial building inspector license, plus a third exam for Plans Examiner. You must pass Part 1 (Principles & Practices of Florida Law) and Part 2 (ICC Technical Code) to earn the Inspector license. To also become a Plans Examiner, you take an additional specialized exam. For example, the Principles and Practices test is 50 questions (70% to pass) and covers Florida statutes.  

• Exam prep and support: Because the licensing exams are challenging, most candidates use a prep course. Gold Coast School of Construction offers a Florida-licensed Building Inspector & Plans Examiner Exam Prep course specifically designed to review the BCAIB and ICC content.  

For more information, check out How to Become a Certified Building Inspector in Florida. 

Get Ready to Grow Your Career and Earnings  

In Florida, building inspector salaries typically range from about $50,000 to $90,000 per year, with averages in the mid-$50,000s to mid-$60,000s.  

Higher pay comes from larger cities, more experience, and advanced credentials. Critically, earning a Florida Building Inspector license (and its Plans Examiner counterpart) can unlock the highest-paying jobs – often in the $80,000–$110,000 range or more for veterans and officials. 

Ready to boost your earning power? Explore Gold Coast’s Florida‑licensed Building Inspector & Plans Examiner Exam Prep course – it covers everything you need to pass the state exams. Need more information and a step-by-step certification guide? Check out our blog article How to Become a Certified Building Inspector in Florida for detailed information on meeting requirements and launching your new career. 

The post What is a Florida DBPR Complaint and How to Resolve Them appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.

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Our Mission Statement:

To provide the most professional, informative, loyal, dedicated, and personalized (1on1) service with honesty and Integrity. Educate and inform sellers, buyers, renters, and investors – empowering them to make savvy (smart) decisions that will allow them to accomplish their real estate goals.

Respond to this ad:
1on1 Property Management LLC
Jaime Flasterstein
Jaime@1on1realestate.com

The post Professional Real Estate Growth Without Fees appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.

The Orlando Sentinel Media Group curated the list of top workplaces based on comprehensive employee surveys conducted in 2024. The confidential survey, conducted by research partner Energage, asked current employees to evaluate their employer across 24 critical factors, including: 

• Company leadership 
• Meaningfulness and appreciation 
• Career opportunities 
• Working environment 
• Managerial skills Pay and benefits 

Survey results were only considered valid if at least 35 percent of employees in a given company participated, ensuring authentic and representative feedback. 

“We think the best way to determine whether or not a company is a top workplace is simply by asking the employees what they think of the culture,” Dan Kessler, President of Energage, said. “The only criteria that goes into determining whether or not a company is a top workplace is the quantitative data that we capture and measure. You have to earn it, and you have to earn it day in and day out, in the moments that matter.” 

Since beginning operations in 1970 as a real estate school with a single location, Gold Coast has grown into one of the country’s largest providers of education in real estate, appraisal, mortgage, insurance, CAM, and construction. With campuses across Florida and comprehensive online and livestream learning options, Gold Coast serves students through flexible formats that fit their schedules. Gold Coast joined the Colibri Group, a network of brands offering career education across multiple industries, in 2020. 

“We are incredibly proud to be named a Top Workplace by The Orlando Sentinel Media Group for the second year running,” said Michael Hackett, Director of Strategy and Operations at Gold Coast Schools. “This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to prioritizing the well-being and satisfaction of our employees, who are truly the cornerstone of our success. We are immensely proud of our team and their continued dedication to excellence in supporting our students’ career goals.” 

Ready to start your journey toward a rewarding career in real estate or other professional fields? Contact our team to learn more about Gold Coast Schools’ comprehensive coursework and flexible learning options. 

The post Gold Coast Schools Named as Top Workplace for 2025 appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.

In this blog, we’ll look at what building inspectors earn across Florida, how pay varies by region and experience, and why getting licensed pays off.  

The Statewide Salary Snapshot 

The salary range for building inspectors in Florida shows varied values according to different sources. Although most data indicates that the average yearly income ranges between $50,000 and $90,000 before factoring overtime pay or bonuses.  

For example: 

• Indeed (August 2025): average $68,954 per year (range $46,372 low to $102,534 high). 

• ZipRecruiter (August 2025): averaging approximately $51,474 per year, with those in the 25th–75th percentile earning about $40,000–$60,000 and the top 15%-20% averaging about $70,000. 

• CareerExplorer (2021 average): $60,670 per year, ranging widely from around $37,100 at the lower end to $97,320 at the higher end. 

• GovSalaries.: average $66,298 year (25th–75th from $55,437 to $76,746), and the top 10% earning $116,201 per year. 

Regardless of source, Florida building inspectors typically make a decent salary, which can be largely impacted by location, years of experience, employer, overtime work and bonuses. 

Regional Variations Across Florida 

As with most jobs, location matters. Inspectors make more in higher-cost areas or strong job markets. For instance, the average pay for inspectors in Fort Myers is around $69,800 per year (Indeed) and about $54,000–$90,000 on GovSalaries (averaging $74,820).  

In comparison, data from ZipRecruiter notes cities like Ocala and Orlando average in the mid-$60,000s, with about $50,000 at the 25th percentile and as much as $88,000 at the 90th percentile.  

Large urban counties (Miami-Dade, Broward) and growth areas (like Tampa and Orlando metro) also end up tending to pay at or above the state average. Many of these discrepancies are shaped by local demand, cost of living, and government budgets. 

What Drives Salary Differences? 

Several factors influence pay for Florida’s building inspectors: 

Experience/Seniority:  

As in most fields, pay increases with experience. CareerExplorer’s Florida data show entry-level inspectors starting in the $37,000–$47,000 range and mid-career inspectors near $60,670 (median). Senior or highly specialized inspectors can earn substantially more (up to $97,000 at the high end). In practice, inspectors with a decade or more on the job or those who move into supervisory roles, routinely reach the upper end of the pay range. 

Job Title/Role  

Higher titles pay more. For instance, ZipRecruiter data indicate that Building Officials (the managerial counterparts to line inspectors) average about $73,343 per year, which is roughly 42.5% higher than the average inspector ($51,474). In other words, stepping up to a chief inspector or code enforcement role can boost pay by tens of thousands.Employer Type 

City and county agencies often set pay scales that rise with tenure, while private-sector consulting or inspection firms may pay differently. Some municipalities stand out: for example, Government payroll data shows t Coral Gables paying building inspectors more than $104,000 a year on average, and Boca Raton around $72,837. In general, affluent or fast-growing localities (South Florida, Naples/Bonita area, etc.) tend to have higher top-end salaries. 

Certifications & Skills  

Holding specialized certifications – especially being a licensed Plans Examiner in addition to an Inspector – raises your value. Inspectors who can both conduct field inspections and review construction plans are far more valuable to employers. Gold Coast School of Construction and ICC-endorsed credentials (such as fire inspector, accessibility inspector, etc.) can also expand career options and pay. 

Becoming a Building Inspector in Florida: Steps & Resources 

To capitalize on these salaries, you’ll need the proper Florida license. The basic path is to meet the experience requirement, apply for the licensing exam, and pass the state tests. Key points (with Gold Coast School of Construction course support) include: 

• Meet eligibility: You must be at least 18 years old, of good moral character, and have several years of construction experience. Florida law generally requires 4 years of full-time work in construction, building code inspection, or plan review. (You can substitute a combination of technical education plus experience to total 3-4 years.) These prerequisites ensure you have the practical background to understand building codes. 

• Apply for exams: Submit your application to the Florida Building Code Administrators & Inspectors Board (BCAIB). Once approved, you’ll schedule the required exams. 

• Pass the state licensing exams: Florida requires two exams for a commercial building inspector license, plus a third exam for Plans Examiner. You must pass Part 1 (Principles & Practices of Florida Law) and Part 2 (ICC Technical Code) to earn the Inspector license. To also become a Plans Examiner, you take an additional specialized exam. For example, the Principles and Practices test is 50 questions (70% to pass) and covers Florida statutes.  

• Exam prep and support: Because the licensing exams are challenging, most candidates use a prep course. Gold Coast School of Construction offers a Florida-licensed Building Inspector & Plans Examiner Exam Prep course specifically designed to review the BCAIB and ICC content.  

For more information, check out How to Become a Certified Building Inspector in Florida. 

Get Ready to Grow Your Career and Earnings  

In Florida, building inspector salaries typically range from about $50,000 to $90,000 per year, with averages in the mid-$50,000s to mid-$60,000s.  

Higher pay comes from larger cities, more experience, and advanced credentials. Critically, earning a Florida Building Inspector license (and its Plans Examiner counterpart) can unlock the highest-paying jobs – often in the $80,000–$110,000 range or more for veterans and officials. 

Ready to boost your earning power? Explore Gold Coast’s Florida‑licensed Building Inspector & Plans Examiner Exam Prep course – it covers everything you need to pass the state exams. Need more information and a step-by-step certification guide? Check out our blog article How to Become a Certified Building Inspector in Florida for detailed information on meeting requirements and launching your new career. 

The post How Much Do Building Inspectors Earn in Florida? A Salary Guide appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.

Respond to this ad:
B Safe Insurance Services,Inc
Laura Saldia
Laurabsafeins@gmail.com

The post 220 or 440 Licensed Insurance Agents (or Trainees) appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.

There are several types of air conditioning contractor licenses that you can earn. In this article we will dive into the differences between them and how you can complete all the steps necessary to earn your HVAC license in Florida.

Your can trust Gold Coast Construction and our Florida HVAC courses to get you licensed and ready for your new career!

Common Florida A/C contractor license types:

The most popular air conditioning contractor license categories are A/C – Mechanical, A/C-(A), and AC-(B).  The distinction between them comes down to the size and types of air conditioning units a licensee can install and service. 

• Mechanical A/C – qualified to work on medical gas, fuel gas, and A/C units over 25 tons cooling.
• A/C – (A) Contractor – qualified to work on units over 25 tons cooling, and over 500,000 BTU heating.
• A/C- (B) Contractor – qualified to work on units up to 25 tons cooling, and up to 500,000 BTU heating.

The highest certification of the three is a licensed Mechanical A/C contractor which allows for expanded work on the largest units, coolers, boilers, and the surrounding components such as the plumbing and ducting needed to allow them to operate.    

The A/C – (A) and AC – (B) licenses are the most common and still allow for a substantial amount of commercial as well as residential air conditioning work. However, it is important to note the size and specifications of the units as the proper license must be held based on the cooling tons and heating units.

As far as earning your (A) or (B) license is concerned, the only difference is a longer and more intensive trade knowledge portion of the state exam for anyone achieving their class (A) vs a class (B) license.

HVAC License Requirements for Florida

A valid license is required in Florida to perform any heating, A/C, and refrigeration work. For the A and B contractor licenses, you can earn your license and work anywhere in the state with a State Certified License by passing the Florida license exam.

You can also work as a State Registered HVAC licensed contractor by passing a particular locality’s exam and working only in that region. Each Florida county has its own requirements when it comes to earning your HVAC license.

HVAC license requirements include:

• Must be 18 years of age
• Have a high school degree or GED
• Submit to a criminal background check
• Have good credit: applicants will be subject to a credit report on both the applicant and the business with a preferred FICO score of a 660 or above. 
  • If you do not meet the 660 FICO score, you CAN still get your license by posting a licensing bond.
• Four years of proven A/C construction experience. 
  • You do not have to have the necessary experience before you take the exam.
• Pass the trade knowledge and a business and finance exam
• Obtain $100,000 in general liability insurance and $25,000 in property damage coverage

The test scores are valid for 4 years meaning you have 4 years to gain the required experience after passing the state exam.

Continuing Education Requirements: To renew your HVAC license in Florida, you must complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years.

FL HVAC Experience Requirements

Any of the following will satisfy the state requirements when it comes to work experience:

• 2 years of experience as a worker, 1 year as a foreman, and 1 year of college credits
• 1 year of experience as a worker, 1 year as a foreman, and 2 years of college credits
• 1 year of experience as a foreman and at least 3 years of college credits
• 4 years of apprenticeship experience with at least 1 of those years as a foreman
• A bachelor’s degree in a related field and 1 year or 2,000 hours of experience

HVAC Licensing Exam

Once you have taken any Florida HVAC prep courses and acquired the education you need, your next step is to pass your exam with at least 70%. The exams are open-book, consisting of multiple-choice questions and take 4 hours and 45 minutes to complete.

Once you pass your exam you can apply for your Florida contractors license through the DBPR website.

How much does it cost to get a Florida HVAC license?

A registered contractor license will cost $309 (if you apply between May 1 of an odd year and Aug 31 of an even year) or $209 (if you apply between Sept 1 of an even year and Apr30 of an odd year).

For a certified contractor, the fee is $249 (if you apply between May 1 of an even year and Aug 31 of an odd year) or $149 (if you apply between Sept1 of an odd year and Apr 30 of an even year).

For either type of license, the renewal fee, due every two years on Aug 31, is $209.

Gold Coast Florida HVAC Program Overview

Gold Coast’s exam prep program is divided into modules to make it easy to gain the knowledge you need to pass your licensing exam.  These modules will focus on A/C trade knowledge as well as business and finance (both areas that will be tested on the licensing exam). By breaking up the material into smaller chunks, students can better absorb the information related to each topic. 

Gold Coast’s experienced instructors will help you navigate the books giving you the knowledge and confidence needed to pass the open book state exam.  The key is to be familiar with the content and its location so that you can quickly reference the answers to the questions you face. 

If you are committed to getting your license, come see why graduates stand behind the motto that at Gold Coast, “The Proof is in the Passing!”

Thinking about getting your A/C License?

Gold Coast School of Construction has been helping students achieve professional licenses since 1970.  The air conditioning contractor program will help you get licensed and well on your way to success out in the field.  Learn more about how our Florida HVAC course works, or contact a helpful career counselor at 1-800-732-9140. 

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Key Takeaways 

• Historic Florida Property Tax Changes: Florida may become the first state without income or property taxes, creating unprecedented opportunities for real estate professionals. 
• Immediate Market Impact: Current tax relief measures are already making Florida more attractive to homebuyers and investors. 
• Investment Surge Potential: The elimination of property taxes could drive substantial increases in out-of-state and international investment. 
• Career Preparation Necessity: New agents must develop tax expertise to succeed in this evolving landscape. 
• Client Education Advantage: Agents who understand these tax implications will have a significant edge in client acquisition and retention. 

Current Tax Relief Measures (2025) 

Florida has already implemented notable tax relief measures. In June 2025, a significant tax-cut package totaling $1.6 billion was signed into law as part of the state’s 2025-2026 budget. This package includes several provisions impacting real estate: 

• The business rent tax is set to be eliminated effective October 1, 2025, which will benefit commercial property owners and tenants. 
• There are multiple sales tax holidays planned for essential items, including disaster preparedness supplies such as batteries, portable generators, tarps, gas cans, tie-down kits, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors. 
• The budget allocates $50 million to continue the Hometown Heroes Housing Program. This initiative helps first-time homebuyers, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, healthcare professionals, and members of the State Guard, become homeowners.  

These actions have the potential to enhance Florida’s appeal to homebuyers and investors. 

Proposed Florida Property Tax Law Changes 2025 

There are several proposals to reduce or eliminate property taxes in Florida, according to a September 2025 news report. Ideas include:  

• A rollback to 2022 rates 
• Targeted relief for seniors  
• A $500,000 homestead exemption for primary residences 
• A 15% annual cap on property assessment increases 

Representative Ryan Chamberlin has introduced a specific plan to replace property tax revenue with alternative funding sources: 

• A 15% sales tax on real estate transactions, projected to generate $12 billion annually 
• A 5% tax on tourism-related services, expected to raise an additional $4 billion 

The Florida House of Representatives Select Committee on Property Taxes is currently reviewing multiple proposals aimed at resolving property tax issues. Their objective is to draft a constitutional amendment eliminating the tax for inclusion on the November 2026 ballot. 

Market Implications of Property Tax Changes for New Agents 

These potential changes create significant opportunities for new real estate professionals: 

Increased buyer interest 

The elimination of property taxes would substantially reduce the long-term cost of homeownership, potentially driving more buyers into the market. 

Investment surge 

Florida could become even more attractive to out-of-state and international investors looking for tax-advantaged real estate. 

Market segmentation 

Different regions and property types may respond differently to these changes. Areas with currently high property taxes might see the most dramatic market shifts. 

Competitive advantage 

Agents who thoroughly understand these tax implications will have a significant edge in client acquisition and retention. 

In short, these changes could reshape how people buy and invest in Florida real estate, with lower taxes potentially improving buying power and increasing demand. 

Preparing Your Real Estate Career for These Changes 

To position yourself for success in this evolving landscape: 

Develop tax expertise 

Make understanding Florida’s current and proposed tax structures a priority in your professional development. 

Build a professional network 

Establish relationships with tax professionals, financial advisors, and mortgage lenders who can help your clients navigate these proposed Florida property tax law changes for 2025. 

Create educational marketing 

Position yourself as a resource for tax information through your social media, blog posts, and client communications. 

Consider specialization 

Focus on markets or client segments most likely to benefit from these tax changes, such as out-of-state relocations or investment properties. 

Start Your Real Estate Career on Your Terms 

Gold Coast Schools stays current with legislative changes and Florida real estate industry trends to ensure our students enter the profession with the knowledge they need to thrive. 

Gold Coast’s comprehensive real estate education programs offer flexible learning options, including self-paced online, livestream, and in-person classes at eight convenient locations, tailored to fit your schedule and learning style. With Affirm financing options available, you can start your real estate education journey today for as little as a few dollars per month. 

Your future in real estate starts now. Contact Gold Coast Schools today to learn more about how we can help you succeed in Florida’s changing tax landscape. 

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