Should I be worried if the GC isn’t pulling permits himself?

[Matthew Johnson]

Hello BP!

I’m a new investor working on my first deal and need to do a little bit of rehab. The bigger items on my list include some plumbing, electrical, and replacing kitchen cabinets/sink. 

I have bids from two general contractors right now. The one I’m leaning towards said that the electrician and plumber would pull permits on their own and theres no need for permits on the rest of the renovation (pretty minor stuff other than kitchen cabinets). Should I be worried that the GC wouldn’t be pulling any permits himself? I‘m very worried about my liability and having work done that’s not properly permitted, and less worried about saving a few bucks. I double checked and his license is valid until 8/30/20. He stated that he had a policy that covers up to $300k but I don’t know any details other than that. 

I could be wrong about this but if I understood correctly, the other contractor was going to pull a permit for the entire renovation. He has a $2mm policy. 

What do I need to be doing to make sure I’m covered as much as possible liability wise here? What should I be asking about the contractors insurance, and what insurance should I take out on my own separately?

This is in Florida, btw.

Thanks for the help!
Matt