Clearwater Unlicensed Contracting Attorney 

What Counts as Unlicensed Contracting in Florida? 

Several things count as unlicensed contracting under Florida law, including the following:

1. Falsely advertising yourself or your company as a licensee
2. Impersonating someone with a contracting license
3. Using another's license as if it were your own
4. Presenting false information or documents when pursuing a license
5. Using a license that has been revoked or suspended
6. Performing work as a contractor or advertise yourself as a contractor without being registered and certified as such 
7. Operating a contracting business 60 days after a qualifying agent (the person who holds a necessary license) has been terminated or left the company without appointing another qualifying agent
8. Performing contracting work that requires a permit without first obtaining the permit
9. Failing to follow local ordinances regarding unlicensed contracting 

Penalties for Unlicensed Contracting 

The penalties for unlicensed contracting can be severe. For a first-time offense, you could be charged with a misdemeanor and face up to a year in jail and fines of up to $1,000. For subsequent offenses or more serious cases involving significant property damage or harm to the public, you may be charged with a felony and be subject to much harsher penalties. 

In addition to criminal charges, you may face civil penalties and lawsuits from clients harmed by your work. These consequences can range from paying financial damages to forfeiting personal assets. Not to mention, your reputation may be damaged, and your ability to obtain a legitimate contracting license could be jeopardized.