Escambia County Warns Hurricane Victims to Check Contractors, Permits Before Repairs

PENSACOLA, Fla. — Escambia County officials are warning Hurricane Isaias victims that rushing into home repairs with an unlicensed contractor could create problems long after the storm cleanup is finished.

Escambia County Building Services and Permitting Director Tim Tolbert says homeowners should verify contractors are properly licensed and insured before allowing work to begin.

One warning sign can be an advertisement or work vehicle that claims a contractor is licensed without displaying a license number.

Tolbert said Florida-licensed contractors are required to include that number in their advertising.

Homeowners should also get a written contract detailing the work and its cost, seek multiple bids when possible and be cautious of demands for large upfront payments or cash.

Tolbert stressed another distinction that can easily become confused during hurricane recovery: Escambia County has waived storm-repair permit fees, not permit requirements.

Required permits must still be obtained.

Failing to do so can create problems later, including complications with insurance coverage or the sale of a home.

County officials say homeowners should also photograph damage before cleanup and retain contracts, receipts and other documentation related to hurricane repairs.

Suspected unlicensed contracting can be reported to Florida's Unlicensed Activity Hotline at 866-532-1440.

These six give the website a good mix rather than making the homepage entirely hurricane logistics: power/accountability, schools/accountability, water/service, relief/resources, community response and consumer protection.