Cape Coral Reminds Residents to be Wary of Unlicensed Contractors
October 26, 2026
The City of Cape Coral reminds residents to verify contractor licenses before starting any construction or home improvement projects.
In Florida, it is a crime to work as a contractor without a valid license, and hiring an unlicensed contractor puts your safety, home, and finances at risk.
How to verify a contractor:
- Request the contractor's license number and confirm the license is current and valid. Do not rely solely on a license number appearing on business cards, advertisements, vehicles, or contracts.
- Confirm state licensing through myfloridalicense.com.
- Verify business registration on Sunbiz.org. Sunbiz verifies that a business is registered with the state but does not confirm that a contractor is properly licensed.
- Check local licensing requirements with the City of Cape Coral at CapeCoral.gov/BTR.
Residents should receive a written contract and estimates before work begins. The contract should clearly outline the scope of work, costs, and other important project details.
Warning signs that a contractor is not licensed:
- They ask you to make a check payable to an individual.
- They cannot provide proof of insurance.
- They are not willing to put a contract in writing.
- They request a large down payment before work begins.
To report an unlicensed contractor performing work within the City of Cape Coral, call 239-242-3783 or email Cape Coral Code Compliance at unlicensed@capecoral.gov.
