Category: Tips & Advice

Not all aluminum contractors are equal. Before signing anything, here are five questions that separate the professionals from the rest.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

This seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how many unlicensed operators work in Southwest Florida. A proper contractor should have a state or county contractor’s license, general liability insurance, and workers’ compensation coverage. Ask to see documentation — don’t just take their word for it. An unlicensed contractor means no permit, no inspection, and no recourse if something goes wrong.

2. Does Your Quote Include Engineering and Permits?

In most of Southwest Florida, aluminum structures require sealed engineer drawings and a building permit. Some contractors quote the structure only and add engineering and permit fees later. Get clarity upfront on exactly what’s included in the price — engineering, permits, inspections, and final cleanup should all be part of a professional quote.

3. What Gauge Aluminum Do You Use?

Heavier-gauge aluminum means a stronger, more durable structure. Ask about the wall thickness of the main framing members. Budget contractors often use thinner aluminum that meets minimum code but offers little safety margin. For Florida’s storm environment, you want a contractor who builds above the minimum.

4. Who Does the Actual Installation?

Some companies sell the job then subcontract the installation to whoever is available. Ask whether the company uses its own installation crews or subcontracts. In-house crews typically deliver more consistent quality because they’re trained to the company’s standards and accountable to the company’s reputation.

5. Can You Provide Local References?

A reputable contractor should have no problem providing references from recent projects in your area. Better yet, check Google reviews, ask on local community Facebook groups, and drive by completed projects if possible. The quality of finished work is the best indicator of what you’ll get.

Have questions about your aluminum project? Contact SAS Aluminum — we’re happy to answer all five of these questions and more. Call (239) 264-5914.

Short answer: yes. Here’s what you need to know about permits for pool enclosures and aluminum structures in Southwest Florida.

Permits Are Required — Here’s Why

In Lee County, Collier County, and Charlotte County, building permits are required for new pool enclosures, screen rooms, pergolas, patio covers, and most aluminum structures. This isn’t bureaucratic red tape — it’s how the local building department ensures your structure is safe, properly engineered for Florida’s wind loads, and built to current building code.

The permit process typically requires sealed engineer drawings that prove the structure meets wind load requirements for your specific location, a site plan showing the structure’s placement on your property, compliance with setback requirements (minimum distances from property lines), and inspections at key phases of construction.

What Happens Without a Permit?

Building without a permit creates real problems. Code enforcement can require you to tear down the structure. Your homeowner’s insurance may not cover damage to an unpermitted structure. When you sell your home, unpermitted work shows up during inspections and can kill deals or require expensive remediation. And if an unpermitted structure fails and causes injury, you face serious liability.

We Handle Permits for You

At SAS Aluminum, permitting is included in our process. We provide sealed engineer drawings, submit the permit application, coordinate with the building department, and schedule inspections. You don’t have to deal with any of it. It’s one of the advantages of working with a professional contractor who knows the local permitting process inside and out.

Questions about permits for your project? Contact us or call (239) 264-5914.