Don’t Get Scammed: Hiring Contractors in Orlando, Florida
We have all heard the horror stories. A homeowner saves up for a renovation, hands over a deposit, and then… silence. The contractor stops answering calls, or worse, leaves the job half-finished and unsafe. It is a nightmare scenario that happens far too often, right here in our own backyard.
Whether you're in Winter Park looking to upgrade your backyard or near Dr. Phillips needing a repair, your home is likely your biggest investment. Protecting it means knowing who you're hiring. Scams are not just annoying; they are expensive and stressful. But you don’t have to be a victim. With a little bit of knowledge and some careful checking, you can spot the red flags before you sign on the dotted line.
Here is how you can protect your wallet and your home from dishonest contractors.
How do I know if a contractor is actually legitimate?
The very first step—before you even discuss design or materials—is verifying that the person you're talking to is allowed to do the work. In Florida, this isn't just a suggestion; it's a necessity.
Florida has strict laws regarding construction because of our unique weather. Unlicensed contractors often skip permits and ignore building codes. This matters because if they do unpermitted work that isn't up to code, the city can make you tear it down at your own expense. Even scarier, if an unlicensed worker gets hurt on your property, you could be liable for their medical bills.
When you're looking for fence contractors in Orlando Florida, or any other trade, ask for their license number immediately. You can verify it on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) website.
Also, ask for proof of general liability and workers' compensation insurance. Do not just take their word for it; ask to see the certificate. A legitimate pro will be happy to show you. This protects you from being sued if an accident happens on your property.
If you're planning a new fence installation, making sure your contractor is licensed means they know about local requirements. For example, in Orange County, a fence permit generally costs between $200 and $500. A scammer will try to talk you out of getting a permit to save a few bucks, but that puts all the risk on you.
What should be included in the written contract?
Never settle for a handshake deal. A detailed, written contract is your best defense against a "he-said, she-said" situation later.
The contract needs to spell out exactly what work is being done. It should include the start date and an estimated completion date. It should also list the specific materials being used.
Why does this matter? In Central Florida, we have to worry about hurricane season. Building codes here are strict for a reason. For fencing, materials often need to meet wind rating requirements of 130 to 150 mph, depending on exactly where you live. If your contract just says "install vinyl fence" without specifying the grade or wind rating, a shady contractor might install cheap, thin material that will rip apart the next time a storm rolls through down the I-4 corridor.
Ensure the contract includes a "scope of work" that details cleanup and removal of debris. You don't want to be left with a pile of old wood or concrete in your driveway.
When should I pay the contractor?
Money is usually where things go wrong in a scam. A massive red flag is a contractor asking for the full payment—or a very large percentage—upfront before any work begins.
Reasonable down payments are normal to cover the cost of materials. However, consumer protection agencies often suggest that a down payment should typically not exceed 10% to 33% of the total project cost, depending on the scope of the job and state laws. If someone asks for 50% or more regarding a standard labor job before they have even parked their truck, be very cautious.
Why is this dangerous? Once they have the bulk of your money, they have no incentive to finish the job quickly—or at all.
Instead, structure payments based on progress. You might pay a deposit for materials, a second payment when the work is halfway done, and the final payment only when you're 100% satisfied with the work.
If you rush into a bad deal, you might end up paying twice: once to the scammer and again for fence repair to fix the mess they left behind. Legitimate fence contractors in Orlando Florida will have the financial stability to buy materials without needing your entire bank account first.
What are the warning signs of a scammer?
Sometimes, your gut feeling is your best tool. But there are specific behaviors that should make you run the other way.
Be wary of door-to-door solicitors who claim they "just happened to be in the neighborhood" and have "leftover materials" from another job. This is a classic trick to offload subpar materials or get a quick cash deposit.
Another warning sign is high-pressure sales tactics. If they tell you the price is "only good for today," they are trying to rush you into a decision without doing your homework. A reputable business knows that a fence or renovation is a big decision and will give you time to think it over.
Also, check their communication. Do they have a physical address? A dedicated business phone number? If they only communicate via text and their business address is a P.O. Box or a vacant lot, that is trouble. You need to know where to find them if the work falls apart three months later.
What if a dispute arises anyway?
Even with the best preparation, miscommunications can happen. This is why documentation is vital.
Keep a record of every email, text, and phone call. If you agree to a change in the project—like moving a fence line or changing a material—get a "change order" in writing, signed by both parties.
Take photos and videos throughout the process. If the contractor installs a post crooked or damages your sprinkler system, you want photographic proof of when and how it happened.
If you have a disagreement, try to resolve it with the contractor first, using your documentation. If that fails, knowing you have a licensed contractor means you have options, such as filing a complaint with the DBPR or seeking mediation. If you hired an unlicensed worker, you have very few legal avenues to get your money back.
Trust Your Local Experts
Your home is your sanctuary. Whether you're living in a historic bungalow in Sanford or a new build in Lake Nona, you deserve to feel safe and secure in your investment.
Researching fence contractors in Orlando Florida takes a little time, but it saves you a world of trouble. Verify the license, demand a clear contract, and watch the payment schedule.
We are the local experts you can trust with your business. We are not a giant, faceless corporation; we are the folks who live and work right here in Central Florida. We believe in doing the job right the first time, with transparent pricing and quality materials that stand up to our Florida weather.
Ready to secure your property with a team that values honesty and craftsmanship? Contact Byers Fence today at (386) 457-2045 for a free estimate.