Florida SB 290 Is Now in Effect: What Contractors, Property Owners, and Project Teams Need to Know
On March 23, 2026, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 290 (SB 290) into law, introducing new requirements that affect payment practices within Florida’s construction industry. Effective July 1, 2026, licensed contractors are now required to compensate subcontractors and suppliers within specific timeframes, while additional continuing education requirements have also been adopted for certain construction professionals.
Although these changes primarily apply to licensed contractors, they also carry important implications for property owners, developers, community associations, and project teams. Understanding how these new requirements influence project management, contractor accountability, and construction practices can help reduce delays, improve communication, and support more successful outcomes.
Timely Payment Requirements Are Now Part of Florida Law
One of SB 290’s most significant changes establishes clearer expectations regarding payments between contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers.
Under the new law, licensed contractors must compensate subcontractors and suppliers within 45 days after receiving payment, or according to the payment terms outlined in their contract, unless there is a legitimate dispute regarding the amount owed.
The legislation also aligns the legal definitions of “subcontractor” and “supplier” with Florida Statute 558.002, creating greater consistency throughout the construction industry. Contractors who knowingly or intentionally fail to comply with these requirements may face disciplinary action under Florida Statute 489.129.
Why This Matters Beyond the Construction Industry
Construction projects rely on collaboration between many different professionals. Delayed payments can create ripple effects that impact scheduling, labor availability, material deliveries, and ultimately the completion of a project.
For property owners and community associations, understanding these industry changes helps provide greater visibility into the factors that may influence project timelines and contractor performance. Transparency and accountability throughout the construction process benefit everyone involved.
New Continuing Education Requirements for Contractors
Florida has also revised continuing education requirements for registered and certified General, Building, Residential, and Specialty Structure Contractors.
As part of the existing 14-hour continuing education requirement, contractors will now be required to complete one hour of instruction focused on Cementitious Cladding, Stucco, Plastering, and Lath application and repair methodologies.
The requirement will become enforceable:
- August 31, 2027 for registered contractors
- August 31, 2028 for certified contractors
Contractors who fail to meet the continuing education requirements before license renewal may face non-renewal or disciplinary action. Application information for course providers is available on the Board’s website. Ongoing education helps contractors stay current with evolving construction practices, repair methodologies, and industry standards, ultimately supporting higher-quality workmanship and more resilient buildings.
For property owners, working with professionals who remain current on industry requirements can provide additional confidence throughout construction, restoration, and recovery projects.
Staying Ahead of Industry Changes
Florida’s construction and regulatory landscape continues to evolve through legislation, licensing requirements, and building standards. Whether you’re planning improvements, overseeing restoration work, or preparing for future recovery, understanding these changes before they affect your project can help minimize uncertainty and support better long-term decisions.
Since 2012, GlobalPro has helped property owners, businesses, and community associations navigate complex property, construction, and recovery challenges. Our commitment extends beyond disaster recovery. We believe informed decisions, proactive planning, and experienced guidance are essential throughout every stage of property ownership, from understanding changing regulations and preparing for potential risks to supporting recovery when unexpected events occur.
As Florida’s laws and industry standards continue to evolve, GlobalPro remains committed to helping clients make informed decisions that protect their properties, investments, and long-term recovery goals. Because successful recovery begins long before a claim, it starts with preparation, knowledge, and having the right team by your side.
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