IMPORTANT NEWS...
The Department of Business and Professional Regulation Sweeps Florida to Fight Unlicensed Activity
August 21, 2009
TALLAHASSEE—In an effort to combat unlicensed activity, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Division of Regulation is planning a statewide unlicensed activity sweep during the last week in August. This effort is part of the division’s three-tiered approach to combat unlicensed activity through education, prevention and enforcement. Investigators will perform compliance checks across Florida in an effort to nab unlicensed individuals. In addition to enforcement activities, the department will also educate unlicensed individuals on becoming licensed.
“Statewide operations send a strong message that unlicensed activity will not be tolerated,” said Secretary Charles W. Drago. “Announcing the operations before they begin gives unlicensed individuals an opportunity to think twice before breaking the law.”
The Division of Regulation will conduct sweeps from the eight district offices around the state. To perform these operations, they will partner with other agencies, including local law enforcement, building and code enforcement departments, State Attorney’s offices, and the Florida Department of Financial Services’ Division of Workers’ Compensation. Specific locations will not be disclosed at this time; however, an extensive summary will be distributed at the conclusion of the operation.
Below are precautions that consumers can take to help protect themselves from unlicensed individuals:
- Always ask to see the State of Florida license.
- Note the license number and verify that the license is current and in good standing. To check a license, call 850-487-1395 or visit MyFloridaLicense.com.
- Ask for references and check each one.
- Do not pay cash and be cautious of writing checks made payable to individuals, especially when dealing with a company.
- Get everything in writing, including a detailed description of the work to be completed, a completion date and the total cost.
Additionally, licensed contractors are reminded to hire licensed subcontractors when required for work such as plumbing and electrical.
The department’s mission is to license efficiently and regulate fairly. The department licenses more than one million businesses and professionals ranging from real estate agents, veterinarians, and accountants to contractors and cosmetologists. For more information, please visit MyFloridaLicense.com.
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