Question:
I am now a New York State licensed Alarm installer and I also have a Master Electricians License from several local New York State Towns. What is involved in getting approval and licensed in FL as an Alarm Installer? I have been offered a job with an Orlando Sprinkler Co. to head up and start a NEW Fire Alarm division.

Answer: The company has to have at least 1 technician who holds a valid state license. The state frowns on individuals that sell their license, but do not have a stake in the company...this is not allowed, but often overlooked. Florida law dictates that a license holder must have a 20% interest in the company he is qualifying...so a simple monthly fee is not kosher... The other technicians are required to take a 60? hour class which allows the state to do a full background check, in order to weed out convicted felons. The class is pointless, but it gives the state the edge on investigating the individuals. Many companies also do not follow this rule, and have been leived stiff fines. Many companies here in Florida also try to hire unlicensed subcontractors to avoid paying taxes...this also has lead to stiff fines...Company hires a guy off the street to install an alarm. Pays him less than standard sub rates...then deducts liabity insurance only off each paycheck...that is a big no no... Florida requires all companies to screen all subcontractors prior to hiring. All necessary documentation is to be submitted for approval. If I neglect to send my Workmans Comp & Insurance forms in every few months to all I do sub work for...I get pushed aside until I comply...