General Contracting contractors in
Orlando, Florida.
A public directory of licensed general contracting contractors serving greater Orlando. Market data, licensing requirements, and cost benchmarks — updated continuously from public sources.
Common Job Costs
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Florida requires Certified General Contractor license through DBPR. Must pass 2-part exam (business/finance and trade knowledge), show 4 years experience, maintain $100,000 net worth, carry required insurance. License renewal every 2 years with 14 hours continuing education.
Permit Requirements
Building permits required through City of Orlando Development Services for structural work, additions, major renovations. Electrical, plumbing, mechanical permits needed for related work. Digital submittal through ePlan system required.
Inspection Schedule
Foundation inspection before concrete pour, framing inspection before drywall, electrical/plumbing rough-in before covering, final inspection before certificate of occupancy. 24-hour advance scheduling required.
Insurance Minimums
$300,000 general liability, $50,000 property damage, workers' compensation if employees, $50,000 public liability for license qualification
How to Get Licensed
Verify experience requirements
Document 4 years of construction experience through employer verification, tax records, or sworn affidavits. Experience must be in construction trades, not just related fields.
Complete application
Submit CGC application through DBPR online system with all required documentation including financial statements showing $100,000 net worth and credit report.
Schedule and pass exam
Register for 2-part examination covering business/finance and construction knowledge. Both parts must be passed within 2-year period. Exam fees are separate from application.
Obtain required insurance
Secure general liability, property damage, and workers' compensation insurance meeting state minimums. Insurance must be active before license approval.
Complete license issuance
After exam passage and application approval, pay final licensing fee. License is valid for 2 years and requires 14 hours continuing education for renewal.
About This Market
Orlando's general contracting market runs hot with steady population growth, tourism infrastructure needs, and hurricane recovery work driving consistent demand. Competition is fierce among 4,126 licensed establishments statewide, with pricing pressure from volume builders and specialty contractors. Hurricane-resistant construction, luxury home markets around Lake Nona and Winter Park, and commercial tourism projects dominate higher-end work. Material costs swing with hurricane seasons and supply chain disruptions.
To work Orlando effectively, nail down your DBPR licensing early - the exam and experience requirements aren't negotiable, and renewal cycles come fast. Know Orlando's digital permitting system inside and out, and build relationships with inspectors who control your schedule. Winter months are your money season when weather cooperates and snowbirds want work done. Hurricane seasons bring emergency work but also material shortages and insurance headaches. Price jobs with Florida's volatile material costs and permitting delays baked in.
- Licensed establishments countUS Census Bureau
- Licensing requirementsFlorida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
- Insurance requirementsFlorida Statutes Chapter 489
- Permit requirementsCity of Orlando Development Services
- Cost rangesMarket estimates based on local pricing
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a general contractor license in Florida?
Typically 6-12 months from application to license approval. You need 4 years verifiable experience, pass the 2-part state exam, and meet financial requirements including $100,000 net worth. Processing time varies by DBPR workload.
What's the average cost of a kitchen remodel in Orlando?
Mid-range kitchen remodels run $25,000-$55,000 in Orlando. Costs vary significantly based on size, finishes, and structural changes. High-end markets like Winter Park and Dr. Phillips see premium pricing due to luxury expectations.
Do I need separate permits for electrical and plumbing work?
Yes, Orlando requires separate electrical and plumbing permits in addition to the general building permit. These are pulled through the same ePlan system but require licensed subcontractors to apply for their respective trade permits.
When is the best time to schedule construction in Orlando?
October through April offers the most reliable weather and material availability. Hurricane season (June-November) brings project delays, material shortages, and higher insurance costs, though emergency repair work peaks during this period.
How much insurance do general contractors need in Orlando?
Florida requires minimum $300,000 general liability, $50,000 property damage, and workers' compensation if you have employees. Many clients and municipalities require higher limits, often $1 million general liability for commercial work.
General Contracting contractors in Orlando
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