Question: If I'm just doing "handyman" type of work, do I have to be licensed?

Answer: If you are engaged in building, mechanical, electrical or plumbing work, then most likely the answer will be yes. To be sure, you should call the Contractor Licensing Section at (352)754-4109 to discuss the scope of work.

Question: If I unknowingly hired an unlicensed contractor, am I in trouble?

Answer: No. Under normal circumstances, we prosecute the unlicensed contractor either through criminal or administrative/civil means, or both, and the property owner is considered the victim.

Question: As a homeowner, am I responsible for any construction work done on my property regardless of whether or not I did the work?

Answer: The responsible party is usually the licensed contractor, who should be the holder of the permit. However, if the homeowner obtained the permit, did the work or supervised the work, then the homeowner is the responsible party.

Question: I received a "double plus original fee penalty" on my permit. What is that penalty for, and how do I avoid it in the future?

Answer: The "double plus original fee penalty" is a fine for performing construction work without first acquiring the proper permits. Do not perform any construction work without checking first to see if a permit is required. For information, call the Building Division at 754-4050.

Question: Do I need a licensed contractor to obtain a permit for work on my house? What about my office?

Answer: Property owners can obtain their own permits if:

• they own and occupy their own home, or a home is to be constructed for their own use and in which they plan to immediately reside, or

• a commercial building whose total construction cost is less than $25,000 and whose occupancy is for the owner and is not offered for sale or lease.

Not more than ONE such permit shall be issued in a 12-month period.

INSPECTIONS

Question: Am I required to keep approved drawings on my job site?

Answer: Yes. Commercial drawings are usually kept in the construction trailer or in the superintendent's office. Residential drawings are usually kept in the permit box.

Question: What time will the inspector be on the job?

Answer: Most of the time we can only estimate morning or afternoon . If an inspector deviates from his route too much, he may not complete his daily inspections. If you need a specific time, it is recommended you call the Building Division at (352)754-4050 the day before the inspection in order to schedule an appointment and pay the appropriate fee.

Question: How do I find out the status of my inspection?

Answer: Check your permit card or have your permit number ready and call the inspector at (352)754-4050 between 3:30 pm and 4:00 pm.

Question: I really need to talk to the inspector that was on my job site. When can I reach him?

Answer: All of our inspectors are in the Brooksville Office from 7:30 am to 8:00 am and from 3:30 pm to 4:00 pm The phone number is (352) 754-4050.

Question: I'm thinking about buying a home and would like to have it inspected. Will you send an inspector by to look at it?

Answer: The Building Division inspects new construction work only. When purchasing a home, it is recommended that you hire a private inspection firm to make this type of inspection.

Question: Do I need to get an inspection before I pour concrete or cover work in the right-of-way, i.e. driveway aprons, culvert, etc.?

Answer: Yes. An inspection is required before any concrete is placed below or above ground in the right-of-way.

Question: Do I need a drywall inspection?

Answer: Only on firewall, ceiling diaphragms, and the fire rated floor-ceiling or roof-ceiling assemblies.

Question: Do I need a separate pool main drain inspection even though I had a pool steel inspection?

Answer: Yes. This is a separate inspection done by the plumbing inspector and needs to be requested on the pool permit.

Question: How do you get a release of electrical power?

Answer: Electrical power authorization is not released to the power company until all permits have been inspected and approved and all fees have been paid. However, provisions for early electrical release on owner/builder residential projects and temporary power for commercial projects can be made.

Question:  When do I need a Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.)?