Impact Window Contractor Checklist
Hiring the wrong impact window contractor can cost you thousands and leave your home unprotected. Use this checklist to verify licensing, insurance, experience, and more before you sign a contract.
6 Things to Verify Before You Hire
Go through each section and check off every item. If a contractor cannot satisfy these requirements, keep looking.
License Verification
Florida law requires all contractors performing impact window and door installations to hold a valid state license. Verifying a contractor's license is the single most important step you can take before signing a contract.
- Verify the contractor holds a valid Florida contractor license (CGC or CCC prefix for general/certified contractors)
- Confirm the license is current and in good standing with the DBPR (Department of Business and Professional Regulation)
- Verify the license holder is the one legally qualifying the company
- Check for any complaints or disciplinary actions on their license at myfloridalicense.com
Insurance Coverage
A contractor without proper insurance leaves you financially liable for injuries and property damage on your project. Never accept a verbal claim that they are insured — always request documentation.
- Confirm the contractor carries general liability insurance (minimum $1M)
- Verify workers' compensation coverage for all employees
- Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) directly from their insurer
- Make sure the insurance policy is active and won't expire during your project
Experience & Track Record
Impact window installation in South Florida is specialized work. A contractor who installs standard windows up north is not qualified for HVHZ installations in Miami-Dade or Broward County. Verify real-world experience before you move forward.
- Verify a minimum of 5 years of impact window experience in South Florida
- Ask for examples of completed projects similar to yours
- Check online reviews on Google, BBB, and Angi
- Confirm experience with your specific window brands (PGT, CGI, ES, CWS)
- Ask about HVHZ (High Velocity Hurricane Zone) installation experience
Installation Details
The quality of your installation matters just as much as the product itself. Ask the right questions about who performs the work, what is included, and what happens after installation day.
- Clarify if installers are W-2 employees or subcontractors
- If subcontractors are used, request proof of their licensing and insurance
- Confirm the scope includes full cleanup and debris removal
- Verify that stucco, drywall, and trim repairs are included
- Ask about window and door disposal of old products
Permits & Inspections
Every impact window and door installation in Florida requires a building permit and final inspection. A contractor who skips permits is putting your home, your warranty, and your insurance at risk.
- Confirm the contractor pulls all required building permits
- Verify they handle Miami-Dade/Broward NOA (Notice of Acceptance) requirements
- Ask about scheduling county inspections
- Ensure final inspection sign-off is included in the contract
Warranty & Contract
Your contract and warranty are your legal protection. Never sign a contract that is vague about timelines, payment schedules, or warranty coverage. Everything should be in writing before work begins.
- Ask about both manufacturer product warranty and workmanship warranty
- Get warranty details in writing — duration, what's covered, and exclusions
- Ensure the contract includes start date, completion date, and scope of work
- Review the payment schedule — never pay more than 30% upfront
- Make sure change orders require written approval
Pro Tip: Verify Licenses Yourself
Do not take a contractor's word for it. Visit myfloridalicense.com and search for the contractor's name or license number directly. You can confirm the license type (CGC or CCC), check the status, and see if any complaints have been filed. It takes less than two minutes and can save you from a costly mistake.
Why Florida Impact Windows & Doors Checks Every Box
We built this checklist because we meet every single requirement — and we believe homeowners deserve transparency from day one.
Licensed
Fully licensed Florida CGC contractor — verify us on myfloridalicense.com anytime
Fully Insured
General liability and workers' compensation coverage on every project — COI available on request
15+ Years Experience
Over 5,000 impact window and door installations across Broward and Palm Beach County
Own W-2 Installation Crews
We never subcontract — our factory-trained W-2 employees handle every installation
We Pull All Permits
We handle the entire permitting process and schedule all required county inspections
Manufacturer + Workmanship Warranty
Full manufacturer product warranty plus our own written workmanship guarantee on every project
Ready to Work With a Contractor You Can Trust?
Florida Impact Windows & Doors meets every item on this checklist. Schedule your free in-home consultation and see the difference a qualified contractor makes.