Choosing a general contractor is one of the biggest decisions in any commercial project. The right contractor protects your budget, your schedule and your tenants or customers. Here is a practical checklist to use before you sign.
1. Verify the license
In Florida, general contractors must be properly licensed. You can look up a contractor’s license status on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) website. Confirm that the license is active and that the company name on the contract matches the license holder.
2. Ask about insurance
Request proof of general liability and workers’ compensation coverage, and ask to be named as an additional insured where appropriate. Uninsured work on your property can become your liability.
3. Check references and similar work
- Ask for projects similar to yours in size and type
- Speak with past clients about communication, schedule and how problems were handled
- Visit completed work when possible
4. Get a clear written scope
A good proposal spells out what is included, what is not, who pulls permits, how changes are priced and how payments are tied to progress. Vague scopes lead to disputes.
5. Understand who handles permits
Permits and inspections are a major part of commercial work in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach. Ask who will prepare and submit permit applications and coordinate inspections.
6. Compare communication, not just price
The lowest bid is not always the lowest cost. Look for a contractor who answers questions clearly, explains the schedule and tells you early when something changes.
Planning a project? Contact Elevate Construction Miami or call (786) 661-3334 for a consultation. We are a licensed Florida general contractor (CGC1539231). See the areas we serve.