He's done plenty of work for me and my family in that past and is great but it was a hassle when it came to permits. 

Wow, the licensing requirements in FL are much tougher....must take a 60 hours course, must document 3 years of supervisory experience, the “test” is 3 test over 2 days....2 with 4 hour limits, 1 with 8.I’d be surprised if you don’t have to have a licensed electrical contractor for the electrical permit and to do the work.

We don't have a dock permit and we are across the road from our beach so it is not as cool.So far so good.

There are lots of bogus ESA permits online for $60, feel free to ask for a note from their doctor. 

However, the final permit set is never what was originally envisioned.

Do I need a permit for this?

Purchase price: $570,000 Cash invested: $200,000 I purchased a 3bed/1bath home with a permitted "workshop" and a permitted "family room".

You may be required to have the septic and well inspected and there may be requirements to upgrade the systems to current code if you are pulling permits to do extensive work on the residence. 

I'm looking for a contractor who's fully insured, registered with the City of Evanston and willing to set up the necessary city permits and inspections.Thanks.

Anke sure the additional beds/baths are permitted.