Updated November 4, 2026
Before you sign
Get written estimates from several licensed contractors. A good estimate describes the work, materials, a completion date and the total cost (DBPR hiring tips). Ask for the Florida Product Approval or NOA number for each product.
- Check the contractor's license number at MyFloridaLicense.com and look for complaints.
- An occupational license, or an LLC or corporation registration, does not make someone a licensed contractor.
- Licensed contractors must put their license number in their advertising.
- Be wary of requests for all or most of the money up front, cash-only payment, or no street address.
Condo and HOA approvals
If you live in a condo, Florida law has the board adopt shutter specifications and says that when owner approval is required, the board may not refuse an installation that conforms to its specifications (Statute 718.113). Who maintains the items depends on your declaration. The statute text may have been updated since that version, so ask your association or an attorney.
For HOAs, state law does not mirror the condo rules, so read your governing documents and submit any architectural request first.
Measuring and ordering
Impact windows are usually made to order. Expect a measuring visit, then a wait while products are built. Lead times vary, so ask for an estimate in writing. Your contractor submits the permit paperwork, which in Pinellas County includes a diagram and a product approval schedule (county form).
Installation day
- Clear furniture and hang-ups near the windows and move cars from the driveway if asked.
- Expect noise and dust; crews may remove old units and fasten new ones, then seal and finish.
- Ask whether the crew will leave any opening temporarily covered at night.
- Keep pets secured.
The installation has to follow the product's approval, including how it is anchored. Ask your contractor to walk you through that.
Inspections
The building department inspects the work after installation. In Pinellas County you can schedule or track inspections in the online portal (county page). Cities use their own systems. Ask your contractor who schedules the inspection and who will be home.
After the final inspection, save the permit record and product approvals. They support your wind mitigation form and any insurance questions.
After the job
- Walk through every opening and test each window and door.
- Get warranty documents in writing.
- Request a wind mitigation inspection to document the upgrade for your insurer.
- Pay the final balance only when you are satisfied and the inspection has passed.
Report problems
To report suspected unlicensed activity, DBPR asks you to email ULA@MyFloridaLicense.com or call 1-866-532-1440.
What to keep in a project folder
- Signed contract and any change orders
- Contractor license number and proof you checked it
- Permit, inspection records and final sign-off
- Product approval numbers for each unit
- Warranty documents and care instructions
- Wind mitigation form after the work
This folder helps with insurance and with selling the house later.
Red flags to watch for
- The contractor says a permit is not needed, or that it is cheaper for you to pull it yourself.
- There is no license number in the company's ads or on the paperwork.
- The price is far below every other estimate, or the company promises to be the fastest or cheapest.
- The company will only take cash or asks for a check made out to a person.
These come from the state's licensing agency (DBPR). If something feels off, pause and check the license before you sign.
If something goes wrong
Start by writing down the problem with dates and photos and sending it to the company in writing. Ask for a repair plan and a date. If the work failed an inspection, the building department can tell you what has to be corrected. If you suspect unlicensed work, use the DBPR contact in this guide. For a legal question about your contract, talk with a Florida attorney.
Frequently asked questions
How long does installation take?
It depends on the number of openings and the crew. Ask your contractor for a written schedule.
Do I need to be home?
Usually someone needs to be there for access. Ask your contractor.
What license should a window installer have?
Ask which Florida license covers the work and verify it at MyFloridaLicense.com. Your building department can tell you who may pull a permit.