IMPORTANT NEWS...
It is Getting Hot!
Only Use State-Licensed Pool Contractors
April 12, 2010
TALLAHASSEE—Spring is here and it is getting hot. Many Florida consumers will be adding or maintaining swimming pools to help beat the heat. The Department of Business and Professional Regulation licenses and regulates swimming pool contractors and reminds consumers to hire state-licensed contractors.
“By working with state-licensed professionals, consumers can be sure that licensure requirements have been met, and if something were to go wrong, they can hold that professional accountable by filing a complaint with us,” said Interim Secretary Charlie Liem. “As you prepare for the hot summer months and begin thinking of home improvement projects, check for state-required licensure.”
This spring, DBPR has made it easier for consumers to verify a pool contractor’s license online. Enhanced features on MyFloridaLicense.com allow consumers to identify pool contractors by license type and learn what services each type of licensee can provide.
Swimming pool specialty contractor licenses are issued in the areas of layout, structural, excavation, trim, decking, piping, and finishes. Pool cleaning and water treatment does not require a DBPR license. Any time a hired individual installs or takes apart equipment that is permanently attached to and associated with the pool for cleaning or water treatment, a license is required. Professionals who install hot tubs and in-ground spas also need a DBPR license.
Here are some tips to help consumers protect themselves against unlicensed activity:
• Always ask to see the State of Florida license.
• Note the license number and verify that the license is current and in good standing. To check a license, call 850-487-1395 or visit MyFloridaLicense.com.
• Ask for references and check each one.
• Do not pay cash and be cautious of writing checks made payable to individuals, especially when dealing with a company.
• Get everything in writing, including a detailed description of the work to be completed, a completion date and the total cost.
The department’s mission is to license efficiently and regulate fairly. The department licenses more than one million businesses and professionals ranging from real estate agents, veterinarians, and accountants to contractors and cosmetologists. For more information, please visit MyFloridaLicense.com.