Quick Answer:
In Florida, both commercial and residential demolition require a contractor’s license, but the type of license needed and the scope of permitted work differ. Commercial demolition typically requires a Certified General Contractor (CGC) license, while residential jobs can be done with a Certified Residential Contractor (CRC) license.
Commercial vs Residential Demolition: Licensing Differences in Florida
If you’re planning demolition work in Florida, you need the right type of contractor license—and using the wrong one can cost you. Whether you’re tearing down a house or a shopping center, state law requires licensed professionals with experience in the proper classification.
Residential demo often falls under a Certified Residential Contractor license, while commercial jobs usually require a Certified General Contractor. To see what qualifies as commercial demo, check out our Tampa commercial demolition services and industrial demolition capabilities.
What License Do You Need for Residential Demolition in Florida?
To legally perform residential demolition, you need either:
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A Certified Residential Contractor (CRC) license
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A Certified Building Contractor (CBC) or Certified General Contractor (CGC) license (both broader and valid for residential)
Scope of Residential Demolition Licenses
A CRC license allows demolition of:
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Single-family homes
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Townhomes and duplexes
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Residential garages and sheds
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Non-structural interior tear-outs in homes
Micro-Questions:
Can a residential contractor demolish a whole house in Florida?
Yes, as long as it’s a one- or two-family dwelling.
Is a general contractor license valid for residential demo?
Yes. It covers residential, commercial, and industrial structures.
Can a handyman do residential demolition?
No. Any structural demo requires a licensed contractor.
What License Do You Need for Commercial Demolition in Florida?
Commercial demolition typically requires a Certified General Contractor (CGC) license. This is the most comprehensive construction license available in Florida.
Scope of Commercial Demolition Licenses
A CGC license allows demolition of:
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Office buildings
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Warehouses
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Shopping centers
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Industrial sites
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Multi-story or mixed-use properties
For bridge or highway projects, check PAW’s bridge and heavy highway demolition for examples of specialized scopes.
Micro-Questions:
Can a building contractor demolish a commercial property?
Yes, but only up to three stories. Anything taller or more complex requires a CGC license.
Is interior commercial demo considered structural work?
Often, yes. Removing load-bearing walls or systems usually requires a CGC license.
Key Differences Between Commercial and Residential Demolition Licensing
|
Feature |
Residential (CRC) |
Commercial (CGC) |
|---|---|---|
|
Structures allowed |
1-2 family homes |
Any commercial or industrial |
|
Maximum height |
Typically 2 stories |
No height restriction |
|
Interior structural demo |
Limited |
Full access |
|
License complexity |
Less rigorous |
Most rigorous |
|
Insurance & bonding needs |
Lower |
Higher |
Micro-Questions:
Is a commercial license harder to get than a residential one?
Yes. CGC licenses require more experience and tougher exams.
Do bonding and insurance requirements differ?
Yes. Commercial projects often require higher liability coverage.
Why It Matters: Legal and Liability Risks
Using the wrong license can lead to:
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Permit denials
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Fines up to $5,000 per violation
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Job site shutdowns
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Voided insurance coverage
Related Services
For demolition help across Florida, check out:
Fast, reliable demolition services from licensed pros with decades of field experience.
FAQ
Is a separate license required for each project type?
No. A CGC license covers both commercial and residential work.
Can I upgrade from CRC to CGC later?
Yes, but it requires meeting higher experience and exam standards.
Are permit rules different for commercial vs residential demo?
Yes. Commercial jobs often involve stricter permitting and environmental reviews.
Does insurance cost more for commercial demolition?
Yes. Due to higher risk, insurance for commercial demo is typically more expensive.
Can I subcontract demo under another contractor’s license?
Only if you’re employed and supervised by a licensed contractor.
People Also Ask
What’s the best license for full-service demolition in Florida?
A Certified General Contractor (CGC) license is the most flexible and covers nearly all demolition work.
Can a building contractor demolish a strip mall?
Only if the structure is three stories or fewer. Otherwise, a CGC license is needed.
What happens if I use the wrong license?
You could face stop-work orders, fines, or legal penalties. Your insurance may also be voided.
Is residential demo ever exempt from licensing?
No. Even tearing down a small home requires a licensed contractor in Florida.