Surety Bonds for Florida Businesses & Contractors
A surety bond is a three-party agreement that guarantees you'll fulfill a contractual or legal obligation. If you fail to meet that obligation, the bond pays the injured party. Think of it as a financial guarantee backed by a surety company — not an insurance policy, but a critical requirement for many Florida businesses and professionals.
Common Types of Surety Bonds in Florida
- Contractor license bonds — Required by Florida for general contractors, electrical contractors, and other licensed trades. Guarantees compliance with state regulations.
- Auto dealer bonds — Florida requires motor vehicle dealers to carry a $25,000 surety bond to obtain and maintain their dealer license.
- Court bonds — Required in legal proceedings, including appeal bonds, executor bonds, and guardianship bonds.
- Permit bonds — Required by local governments for construction permits, right-of-way work, and utility connections.
- Performance bonds — Guarantees a contractor will complete a project according to contract terms. Often required on public and commercial projects.
- Payment bonds — Guarantees subcontractors and suppliers will be paid. Typically paired with performance bonds.
- Fidelity bonds — Protects businesses against employee theft and dishonesty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a surety bond cost in Florida?
Surety bond premiums are typically 1-15% of the bond amount, based on your credit score, financial strength, and bond type. A contractor with good credit might pay $100-$500/year for a $10,000 license bond. Larger performance bonds on commercial projects cost more.
What's the difference between a surety bond and insurance?
Insurance protects you against losses. A surety bond protects others against your failure to perform. If a claim is paid on your bond, the surety company will come to you for reimbursement — unlike insurance, where the insurer absorbs the loss.
Can I get a surety bond with bad credit?
Yes, but you'll pay a higher premium. Some surety companies specialize in applicants with credit challenges. As an independent agency, we work with multiple surety providers to find options regardless of credit history.
Need a Surety Bond?
We work with multiple surety companies to get you bonded quickly and competitively.
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