national environmental training institute

What Happens If You Contract Without A License?

Mold remediation is an important job. Not only does it restore the quality of a home, but it also helps protect the health of its occupants. However, not just anyone can be a mold remediator. There are qualifications and educational requirements that you must meet to receive your mold remediation license. But what happens if you contract without a license? Here’s what you should know.

What Happens If You Contract Without A License?

The consequences of contracting without a license may vary slightly from one state to another. In Florida, statutes are pretty clear on the requirements of a contractor license. Under Florida law, no one shall:

(a) Falsely hold himself or herself or a business organization out as a licensee, certificate holder, or registrant;

(b) Falsely impersonate a certificate holder or registrant;

(c) Present as their own the certificate or registration of another;

(d) Knowingly give false or forged evidence to the board or a member thereof;

(e) Use or attempt to use a certificate or registration that has been suspended or revoked;

(f) Engage in the business or act in the capacity of a contractor or advertise themselves or a business organization as available to engage in the business or act in the capacity of a contractor without being duly registered or certified;

(g) Operate a business organization engaged in contracting after 60 days following the termination of its only qualifying agent without designating another primary qualifying agent, except as provided in ss. 489.119 and 489.1195;

(h) Commence or perform work for which a building permit is required pursuant to part IV of chapter 553 without such building permit being in effect; or

(i) Willfully or deliberately disregard or violate any municipal or county ordinance relating to uncertified or unregistered contractors.

With nine different ways to commit the crime of contracting without a license, it’s essential to understand the penalties. Florida can charge unlicensed contractors as a first-degree misdemeanor, resulting in up to a year in prison or 12 months of probation. The guilty party may also be fined up to $1,000. 

However, if an individual is found practicing without a license again, they may be charged with a 3rd-degree felony and be forced to serve up to 5 years in prison as well as forced to pay a $5,000 fine.

The consequences of contracting without a license are steep. Thankfully, obtaining your mold remediation license isn’t difficult. And with it, you can practice with the peace of mind that you’ve done everything you need to do.

How To Get Your Mold Remediation License

To obtain your mold remediation license, you must first complete 24 hours of training. Once completed, you can pay to apply for the next available exam. If you pass and you have completed at least two years of college courses at a community college, you can pay to apply for your business license. Typically, business licenses only cost around $100, which is relatively affordable compared to other professions.

If you need help obtaining your mold remediation license, consider reaching out to an expert for guidance on how you can proceed with your education and develop a solid and thriving business.

Looking for a Training Institute?

If you aren’t sure how to take classes or the licensing examination, call us today. The National Environmental Training Institute (NETI) is a state-certified training company offering Mold Remediator and Mold Assessor training. NETI also provides continuing education units (CEU’s), certification, and licensing. 

Share this blog post!

Featured Blogs

  • All
  • Blog
  • News
Blog

Questions To Ask Homeowners With Mold Issues

Dive into the six crucial questions Mold specialists should ask homeowners before taking on a job. From understanding the root cause to exploring effective remediation ...
Read More →
Blog

Compare Black Mold and Other Common Household Molds: Critical Differences

When it comes to mold in your client’s home, not all varieties are created equal. Imagine two molds: one, a mere nuisance, the other, a ...
Read More →
Blog

What is a Mold Remediation Protocol?

We’re diving deep into the world of Mold Remediation Protocols. You’re about to discover how this protocol isn’t just a set of guidelines; it’s your ...
Read More →
Blog

Converting Mold Testing Leads Into Mold Removal Jobs

Mold. Just the word alone can send shivers down a homeowner’s spine. It’s a problem that’s as persistent as it is pesky. But for you, ...
Read More →
Blog

Florida State Mold Laws: Why Staying Educated is Your Best Defense

Welcome to the ever-changing, always-challenging world of mold remediation! Understanding Florida’s mold laws is like holding the keys to a treasure chest of opportunities, credibility, ...
Read More →
Blog

10 Marketing Tips for Contractors

As a contractor, marketing your services effectively is crucial for your business growth. These tips will help you reach your target audience and scale your ...
Read More →
Blog

Category 2 Water Damage – What is it?

Water damage is like that uninvited guest who shows up at your party and refuses to leave. And Category 2 Water Damage? That’s the guest ...
Read More →
Blog

5 Benefits of Continuing Education for Career Advancement: A Perspective from an Environmental Training Institute

In an ever-evolving business landscape, staying competitive isn’t just about working hard; it’s about working smart. The key to success lies in continuous learning and ...
Read More →
April 2023 Blog
Blog

How to Improve Your Word-of-Mouth Marketing as a Contractor

For mold assessors and remediators, beyond being trained, certified, and licensed, a big part of growing your business is your reputation. You might not associate ...
Read More →