The first request can be simple
You do not need a technical diagnosis or a complete project plan. Share the property address, the seawall, dock, boat lift, or shoreline area involved, what changed or what you want to build, and the best way to reach you.
We review the request and make one direct connection
FWS reviews the location and project description. We help connect the request with our trusted local contractor so the property conversation can move forward without broad distribution or repeated sales calls.
The contractor prepares for the property evaluation
The contractor may ask for a few safe photos, a survey, prior plans, permits, repair records, vessel information, or other details that apply to the project. If something is missing, the contractor can explain what is actually needed rather than asking you to guess.
What happens during the evaluation
The experienced contractor will review the existing conditions, access, water setting, nearby structures, intended use, and the work you want considered. Measurements, engineering, utilities, permits, or specialty input may become part of the next step depending on the property and scope.
What a useful proposal should explain
A useful written proposal connects the price to a defined scope. It should identify the included work, important exclusions, materials or components, assumptions, owner responsibilities, design and permit responsibilities, payment terms, change process, schedule expectations, and warranty information.
How to compare proposals fairly
Do not compare only the final number. Check whether each contractor is pricing the same work, access plan, material system, engineering, permits, removal, restoration, and warranty. Ask questions whenever an important part of the project is unclear.
What the estimate cannot promise
An early conversation or photo review cannot guarantee a final scope, price, schedule, permit result, or construction outcome. The contractor needs the actual property findings and any required design or agency input before those details can be confirmed.
Information reviewed August 2026. Florida licensing and environmental permit information was checked against current official sources.
Frequently asked questions
Will I receive a firm price from photos alone?
Usually not. Photos can help the contractor prepare, but they do not show every condition, measurement, access issue, or design requirement that can affect the work.
Do I need to find the permits before requesting an estimate?
No. Share any records you already have. The contractor will identify the local, state, or federal permit questions that may apply to the proposed work and explain who will handle each step.
What should I ask before accepting a proposal?
Ask what is included, what is excluded, who handles design and permits, how changes are approved, what the payment schedule covers, and what warranty applies to the completed work.