What is a contractor?
The person who is qualified for, and shall only be responsible for, the project contracted for and means, except as exempted, the person who, for compensation, undertakes to, submits a bid to, or does himself or herself or by others construct, repair, alter, remodel, add to, demolish, subtract from, or improve any building or structure.

Who is a Licensed Contractor?
One who has satisfied the local jurisdiction and state with the educational, financial ability, business and experience requirements for such license. One who maintains the required liability and workers compensation insurance coverage. One who provides and updates the local jurisdiction with proof of such insurance coverage and changes.

Who is an Unlicensed Contractor?
One who has failed to satisfy ANY of the above requirements.

Who is an employee?
A person who receives compensation from and is under the supervision and control of an employer who regularly deducts the F.I.C.A. and withholding tax and provides workers’ compensation, all as prescribed by law. This person may work for a licensed contractor.

Who is an independent contractor?
The person contracting, subcontracting or hired by a contractor who is not an employee. As a hired contractor, that contractor would receive tax form 1099 at the end of the year for all work performed. This person would be required to have a contractor’s license.
A Florida State Certified Contractor is required to exhibit to the local Indian River County Building Official such state certificate prior to engaging in contracting in Indian River County or the City of Vero Beach. It is unlawful for any person to advertise or hold himself out to the public as a person engaged in a business regulated unless that person has a valid certificate of competency (local contractors license) or state certification (license).
Homeowners of an owner-occupied single-family residence may elect exemption from the contractor licensing requirements if they perform the work themselves, have employees (as defined above) performing the work under direct onsite supervision of the owner or hire a licensed contractor for that field of contracting. This privilege does not convey an exemption from obtaining a permit and paying the required fees. A permit shall be obtained from the building official before doing any work or construction of any character, whether permanent or temporary, when a permit is required. Many replacement items such as fences, roofs, HVAC systems, etc. require a building permit.