Guides / Decision guide
Understand deposits on a permitted cabinet contract
What section 489.126 says happens after a large initial payment on permitted residential work, what it does not cover, and how to plan the remodel timeline.
What is not established
- No contract, deposit amount or legal outcome is evaluated.
- Application of the statute to a supply-only sale is not established.
- This guide is not legal advice.
When the deadlines apply
- An initial payment over 10 percent of the contract price for residential work that requires a permit starts a 30-day clock to apply for permits.
- Work must start within 90 days after the permits issue.
- The statute provides for a written demand by certified mail and tiered penalties.
What it does not settle
The statute does not cap deposits and does not apply where no permit is required. Whether it applies to a dealer who only sells cabinet boxes is not established, so ask in writing who holds the contract, whether the scope needs a permit, and what the payment schedule is.
Plan the remodel, not just the payment
KCMA's remodel guidance suggests looking for its A161.1 and Environmental Stewardship seals, starting with a designer who coordinates the contractor and vendors, and planning for timeline changes, dust and noise.
Original paraphrase of the statute and KCMA consumer guidance. This guide is not legal advice.
Sources: Section 489.126, Florida Statutes; KCMA: preparing for a remodel
Sources
External references are provided for research context. A source link does not indicate enrollment, endorsement, or availability in your area.
- Section 489.126, Florida Statutes, accessed
- KCMA: preparing for a remodel, accessed