Businesses in Hallandale Beach, FL

Hallandale Beach is small, dense and sits on the Broward and Miami-Dade line. Two consequences follow. Most businesses here serve both counties, so a provider two miles south in Aventura or north in Hollywood is a normal option rather than an out-of-area one, and you should compare across the line rather than inside the city limits. And the city is heavily condominium, much of it high-rise along the beach and East Hallandale Beach Boulevard, so building rules often decide who you can hire.

Building rules come first

If you live in a condominium or HOA community, find out before booking whether the association requires vendors to be registered, to carry a minimum level of liability insurance, and to supply a certificate of insurance naming the association. Many buildings also restrict work hours and require elevator reservations for moves and renovations. A vendor refused at the front desk still charges for the trip.

Check the license yourself

Construction, roofing, plumbing, electrical, HVAC and pool work: the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Construction Industry Licensing Board, which issues certified licenses valid statewide and registered licenses valid only in a named jurisdiction. Broward County also runs competency boards for some trades. Florida issues no handyman license. There is an exemption for casual or minor work under $2,500, but it dies if the job is part of a larger project or if the person advertises as a contractor, and it never reaches electrical, plumbing or HVAC work. Permitted work needs a licensed contractor whatever it costs, because the permit has to be pulled by one. In a high-rise, almost anything structural, electrical, plumbing or involving a window or balcony needs a permit.

Hair, nails and skin: DBPR, Board of Cosmetology, licensing the individual and the salon address separately, with nails and facials run as specialty registrations.

Auto repair: registration with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, with a written estimate required above $150.

Immigration help: only a licensed attorney or a Board of Immigration Appeals accredited representative may be paid to advise you on a case. A notary public in the United States only witnesses signatures.

Insurance agents: the Florida Department of Financial Services. CPAs: the Florida Board of Accountancy.

Movers must register with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, so ask for the registration number and check it with FDACS. Cleaning, photography, tutoring and fitness are not state-licensed. Ask for general liability insurance and check the company on sunbiz.org.

Before you pay

Scope and total in writing. No large cash deposit. A payment method that leaves a record. For anything in a condominium, confirm the association's approval process before scheduling, because unapproved work in a unit can be ordered removed at your expense.