How to Hire a General Contractor in Orlando, FL (2025 Guide)
Hiring a general contractor (GC) for a major home project in Orlando is one of the most significant decisions you'll make as a homeowner. A good GC manages the entire project — subcontractors, permits, inspections, and timeline. A bad one can cost you tens of thousands in delays, defects, and legal disputes.
Key Takeaways
- Florida requires a Certified General Contractor (CGC) or Certified Building Contractor (CBC) license
- Never hire a GC without verifying their license, insurance, and references
- A detailed written contract with fixed scope is essential — verbal agreements are not enforceable
- Payment schedules should be tied to project milestones, not arbitrary dates
- Florida law gives you lien protection rights — understand them before signing
Florida General Contractor Licensing Requirements
Florida requires general contractors to hold a Certified General Contractor (CGC) or Certified Building Contractor (CBC) license issued by the Florida DBPR. Verify any contractor's license at myfloridalicense.com.
A CGC license allows the contractor to work on any type of construction project. A CBC license is limited to buildings up to 3 stories. For most residential projects in Orlando, either license is appropriate.
Require proof of general liability insurance ($1 million minimum) and workers' compensation. For larger projects ($50,000+), also ask for a performance bond. These protect you if the contractor abandons the project or fails to pay subcontractors.
Vetting and Selecting a General Contractor
Get at least 3 detailed written quotes. For a major project, the selection process should include: reviewing completed projects similar to yours, speaking with at least 3 recent clients, verifying the license and insurance, and reviewing the proposed contract carefully.
Ask specifically: How many projects are you currently managing? Who will be the on-site supervisor? How do you handle change orders? What is your process for resolving disputes?
A GC who is managing too many projects simultaneously will not give yours adequate attention. The on-site supervisor is often more important than the GC themselves — ask to meet them.
Understanding Your Contract and Lien Rights
A general contractor contract should include: detailed scope of work, material specifications, project schedule with milestones, payment schedule tied to milestones, change order process, warranty terms, and dispute resolution process.
Payment schedule: A deposit of 10–20% is standard. Structure remaining payments to project milestones — never pay ahead of work completed. Never pay the final balance until the project is complete, all inspections are passed, and you've done a final walkthrough.
Florida's Construction Lien Law protects you from subcontractors and suppliers placing liens on your property if the GC doesn't pay them. For projects over $2,500, you're entitled to a Notice of Commencement and should receive a Notice to Owner from all subcontractors and suppliers.
Hiring Checklist
- Verified Florida CGC or CBC license on DBPR website
- Confirmed active general liability ($1M+) and workers' comp insurance
- Reviewed completed projects similar to yours
- Spoke with at least 3 recent clients
- Received at least 3 detailed written quotes
- Contract has detailed scope, schedule, and payment milestones
- Change order process clearly defined in contract
- Warranty terms specified in writing
- Notice of Commencement filed for projects over $2,500
- Final payment withheld until project complete and inspections passed
Red Flags to Avoid
- Cannot verify CGC or CBC license on DBPR
- No proof of general liability or workers' comp insurance
- Requires large upfront payment (more than 20–30%)
- No written contract — only verbal agreement
- Cannot provide references from similar completed projects
- Vague about who will supervise the project on-site
- Significantly lower bid than all other quotes
- Pressures you to sign quickly
Frequently Asked Questions
What license does a general contractor need in Florida?
A Certified General Contractor (CGC) or Certified Building Contractor (CBC) license from the Florida DBPR. Verify at myfloridalicense.com.
How much does a general contractor charge in Orlando?
GCs typically charge 10–20% of total project cost as their fee, on top of subcontractor and material costs. For a $100,000 project, expect $10,000–$20,000 in GC fees.
What is a reasonable deposit for a major home project?
A deposit of 10–20% is standard. Never pay more than 30% before significant work begins. Structure remaining payments to project milestones.
What is a Notice of Commencement in Florida?
A legal document filed with the county that establishes the start of a construction project and protects your lien rights. Required for projects over $2,500 in Florida.
How do I handle disputes with my general contractor?
Document everything in writing. Try to resolve disputes directly first. If unsuccessful, Florida has a Construction Industry Licensing Board that handles complaints against licensed contractors.
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