How are unlicensed contractors treated under Florida lien law?

Unlicensed contractors are treated very badly under Florida’s lien law.  An unlicensed contractor cannot sue for breach of contract or foreclose a lien against the property they improved.  They have no lien rights under Chapter 713 of the Florida statutes whatsoever and may face fines, criminal penalties, and restitution obligations if found guilty of unlicensed contracting.