Local Guide · General and residential contractors · Orlando, FL
What should Orlando homeowners know before hiring a general contractor?
Orlando requires building and trade permits for residential projects and owner-builder paperwork for homeowners. Here is what to expect and how to check a contractor.
Check the contractor's license on DBPR. In Orlando, residential projects need a building permit plus trade permits for electrical, plumbing and gas work. Homeowners managing their own projects need an Owner/Builder Declaration and, above a set construction value, a recorded Notice of Commencement. Permit reviews follow Florida's statutory timelines.
Key facts for Orlando, FL
- Orlando requires a building permit for residential projects, plus trade permits for electrical, plumbing, gas or other applicable work.
- Orlando says homeowners managing their own projects need an Owner/Builder Declaration.
- Orlando requires a recorded Notice of Commencement for building permits above a set construction value.
- Orlando follows Florida Statutes 553.792, which sets required timelines for reviewing certain permit applications.
- Orlando says the state permit review timelines apply to both the city and the applicant.
- Florida's recovery fund covers claims only when the violation was committed by a licensee.
What permits do Orlando projects need?
Orlando's residential permitting guide lists a building permit, with trade permits for electrical, plumbing, gas or other applicable work. Plans must be dimensioned and meet the city's submittal standards.
What if you manage your own project?
Orlando says homeowners managing their own projects need an Owner/Builder Declaration and, above a set construction value, a recorded Notice of Commencement. Florida's owner-builder exemption requires you to supervise the work and not sell or lease the home soon after.
How long do reviews take?
Orlando follows Florida Statutes 553.792, which sets timelines for reviewing permit applications. The city says the timelines bind both the city and the applicant, so a complete application matters.
How to choose a provider in Orlando, FL
- Check the license and class on DBPR.
- Confirm the contract includes the construction lien notice.
- Collect lien releases before each payment.
- Confirm who pulls the permits.
- Never pay the full price up front.
- If acting as owner-builder, know the local trade rules.
Nearby
Questions people ask
What permits does an Orlando remodel need?
A building permit, plus trade permits for electrical, plumbing, gas or other applicable work.
Can I manage my own Orlando project?
Yes, with an Owner/Builder Declaration and, above a set construction value, a recorded Notice of Commencement.
Are there deadlines for Orlando permit reviews?
Yes. Orlando follows Florida Statutes 553.792 review timelines.
How do I check an Orlando contractor?
Search the license and class on DBPR's license search.
What protects me if a licensed contractor does me wrong?
Florida's recovery fund may help, but only for violations by licensees.
Sources
This guide was written by our editorial team from the public sources listed above. It is general information, not legal advice; confirm licensing and terms directly with any provider.
