On Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulations website the definitions are as follows: An Electrical Contractor installs, repairs, alters, adds to, or designs electrical wiring, fixtures, or appliances, which generate, transmit, transform, or utilize electrical energy for compensation. An alarm contractor lays out, fabricates, installs, maintains, alters, repairs, monitors, inspects, replaces, or services alarm systems for compensation. Examples of compensation are cash, goods, services, etc. If you pay someone to perform even the simplest of electrical work, such as connecting two wires, you must hire a licensee.
The article on Florida’s DBPR’s website reminds us that these items are offered as examples of services you do need to hire a person with a Florida license and services you do not need to hire a person with a Florida license. The list is not all inclusive. If you have specific questions, please contact the department at 850.487.1395. You should also check with your county or city to learn whether or not a local business tax receipt or certificate of competency is required for services that do not require a state license.
| Needs a License | Does not need a License |
| Install low voltage landscape lighting for compensation. | Install solar powered landscape lighting. |
| Install ceiling fans and light fixtures for compensation. | Change the light bulbs in fixtures. |
| Install or replace electric outlets and switches for compensation. | Change the cover plates on outlets. |
| Install or monitor alarms systems for compensation. | Set up home theater components (excluding wiring). |
| Install cable or satellite television wiring for compensation. | Hang a flat screen TV on a wall. |
| Install computer network wiring for compensation. | Set up wireless computer networks. |
This information was obtained on the DBPR’s website.
The Soreide Law Group, PLLC, will represent you in front of the Florida Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board regarding your licensing issues. To make an appointment to speak with an experienced and qualified attorney please call Soreide Law Group at: (888) 760-6552 or visit our website at: www.floridaprofessionallicense.com.