Bennink's Refrigeration Services

Bennink's Refrigeration Services has closed after more than 50 years of operation in the Florida panhandle. The business is no longer accepting service calls.

Customers seeking HVAC or refrigeration repair and installation are directed to Gulf Stream Heating and Cooling, which has taken over service for Bennink's former customers. Contact Gulf Stream at (850) 426-7969 or visit gulfstreamhvacpros.com.

In Florida, contractors are regulated by the Construction Industry Licensing Board under the Department of Business & Professional Regulation. Before you hire, confirm that any contractor holds the proper state license for the scope of work. Contractors fall into two main categories: certified contractors, who may work anywhere in the state, and registered contractors, who may only work in the jurisdictions where they are registered. You can verify a contractor's license status through the DBPR online license search at myfloridalicense.com.

Most construction work in Florida requires a permit. The specific permit requirements depend on the scope of your project. When you contact a contractor, ask them to clarify whether permits are required for your job and whether they will handle the permit process. Your local building department can also advise on permit requirements.

Florida follows the Florida Building Code, which sets standards for construction quality and safety. A reputable contractor will be familiar with current code requirements for your area and type of project. Ask your contractor how they stay current with building code changes and whether they have experience with projects similar to yours.