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What a Florida Notice of Commencement is and why it matters before inspection
A Notice of Commencement (NOC) is a recorded Florida document that identifies the property, owner, contractor, and lender information for a construction job. On many private projects it must be recorded and posted before the first inspection, and it shapes how Construction Lien Law notices work during the job.
What the Notice of Commencement does
Under Florida's Construction Lien Law (Chapter 713, Florida Statutes), a Notice of Commencement is a recorded instrument that puts key project facts in the public record: legal description, owner, contractor, payment bond information if any, and lender or other interested parties as applicable. It helps subcontractors and suppliers know whom to notify so lien rights stay organized.
It is not a substitute for a building permit, a contract, or insurance.
Why inspectors and lenders care
Many building departments will not perform the first inspection until a recorded NOC is posted on site as required. Lenders often require it before construction draws. If you skip it, you can stall the schedule even when the physical work is ready.
For the broader permit path in Tampa and Hillsborough County, see commercial building permits.
What owners should verify before recording
- Correct legal description and tax folio / parcel identification.
- Owner name exactly as title is held.
- Contractor name and license number matching the contract (for FINREIT LLC: CGC1533570).
- Lender or surety fields completed when they apply.
- Notary and recording in the county where the property is located.
Use the official county or city form currently in force. Forms are updated; do not rely on an outdated PDF from an old project folder without checking.
How NOC ties to payments and lien waivers
During the job, track Notices to Owner and collect lien waivers or releases with payments. Before final payment, a final payment affidavit is commonly required. Hiring a licensed contractor and keeping paperwork clean protects the property; see how to choose a general contractor in Florida.
Questions about sequencing NOC, permits, and start of construction on a Tampa Bay job? Contact FINREIT or call 813-403-7965.
Frequently asked.
Is a Notice of Commencement the same as a building permit?
No. A permit authorizes construction under the code. A Notice of Commencement is a recorded lien-law document. Many jurisdictions still require a recorded NOC before the first inspection.
Who signs the Notice of Commencement?
The property owner or the owner's authorized agent typically signs, often before a notary. Requirements can vary by form and county. Confirm the current official form for the county where the property sits.
What if work starts without an NOC?
You can create inspection delays and lien-law complications. Record and post the NOC as required before requesting the first inspection, and ask your contractor and lender what they need.
Does FINREIT prepare the NOC for clients?
FINREIT can help owners understand what information the form needs and when it must be recorded relative to inspections. The owner generally signs and records it. For project help, call 813-403-7965.
Where can I learn more about hiring a licensed GC?
See how to choose a Florida general contractor and how to hire a commercial GC in Tampa. Always verify license CGC numbers on the DBPR site; FINREIT's license is CGC1533570.