Before you hire anyone

1Check the license (if the trade needs one)

Roofing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, pools and general or building contractors need a Florida license. Look it up at myfloridalicense.com by name or license number and make sure it says Current, Active and the name matches who you're hiring.

Tree work, debris hauling, fencing and board-up don't need a state contractor license, but your city or county may require a local business license. Ask for it.

2Ask for a certificate of insurance (COI)

• Have it sent straight from their insurance agent, not handed over by the contractor.
• Ask to be listed as the certificate holder.
• Call the agent's number on the certificate to confirm the policy is active today.
• Look for general liability, and workers' comp (or a state exemption) if they bring a crew.

3Get written estimates

• Get two or three if you can, even in a hurry.
• The estimate should list the scope, materials, price, start date, cleanup and who pulls the permit.
• Don't sign anything that hands your insurance claim to the contractor. Read before you sign.

4Never pay in full up front

• Pay as work is done. Avoid cash-only deals; pay by check or card so there's a record.
• Get a receipt every time you pay, not a promise to send one later.
• Florida law: a contractor who takes more than 10% up front on a home repair must apply for permits within 30 days and start work within 90 days of the permit.

5Watch for storm-chaser red flags

• Door-knockers with out-of-state plates who "just happen to be in the area".
• Pressure to sign today, or a deal that's only good right now.
• No local address, no license number, or a phone number that goes to voicemail.
• Asking you to sign over your insurance check.

Report unlicensed contractors to the Florida DBPR hotline at 1-866-532-1440, and price gouging or scams to the Florida Attorney General at 1-866-966-7226.