To verify a provider's license in Florida, search the person's or company's name or license number on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) license lookup at myfloridalicense.com. Plumbing contractors are licensed under Chapter 489 of the Florida Statutes. Confirm the license is current, matches the business you are hiring, and covers the work, then ask for a certificate of insurance.
- Use the state DBPR lookup at myfloridalicense.com.
- Check that the license is current and matches the company name.
- Make sure the license type fits the job, such as plumbing or pool work.
- Ask for proof of insurance before work starts.
Why Checking Matters
Leak detection often leads to repairs: opening a slab, replacing a buried line, or fixing pool plumbing. Florida requires contractors doing that kind of work to be licensed. A license shows the contractor has met state requirements, and checking it takes only a few minutes. It also protects you if anything goes wrong, since licensed contractors are accountable to the state.
Step by Step: Use the DBPR Lookup
- Go to myfloridalicense.com, the Florida DBPR site, and choose the option to verify a license.
- Search by the contractor's name, the business name, or the license number. Ask the provider for their number on the phone; a legitimate contractor will share it.
- Check the status: it should show as current and active.
- Check the license type matches the work, for example a plumbing contractor for pipe repairs or a pool contractor for pool plumbing.
- Make sure the name on the license matches the business you are hiring.
Tip: Some local governments also require contractors to register or hold local certificates. Your county or city building department can tell you what applies for permitted work.
Ask for Proof of Insurance
A license and insurance are different things. Ask the provider for a certificate of insurance showing general liability coverage, and workers' compensation where it applies. If a crew member is hurt or your property is damaged during the work, insurance is what protects you.
Other Good Questions to Ask
- What methods will you use to find the leak?
- Will I receive written findings and photos?
- Do you also handle the repair, or will I hire a separate plumber?
- Will the work need a permit?
Written findings are also useful for insurance claims. See insurance leak documentation and repair and repipe options.
How This Works With Our Line
Plant City Leak Pros is a free referral service. When you call (813) 303-9621, you are connected with an independent provider serving your ZIP code. We don't license or employ providers, so asking these questions on the call is the best way to choose with confidence. Learn more on our about page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I check a contractor's license in Florida?
On the Florida DBPR license lookup at myfloridalicense.com, by name, business name or license number.
Does leak detection itself need a license?
Requirements depend on the work. Repairs to plumbing, gas or pool systems generally require the right contractor license. Ask the provider and check the lookup.
What if the license shows as inactive?
Don't hire until it is resolved. An inactive or expired license means the contractor shouldn't be doing licensed work.
Is insurance the same as a license?
No. A license is permission from the state; insurance covers damage or injury. Ask for both.
Do you check providers' licenses for me?
We are a referral service and don't license providers. We recommend checking the license and insurance yourself before hiring.
