March 26, 2010

Dear Friends,

I met with the Florida Swimming Pool Association this week, and the main topic of discussion was the importance of hiring licensed professionals.  With warm weather spreading throughout the state, swimming pool owners are gearing up for pool maintenance.  Anyone who is considering having swimming pool work performed should find out what work requires a license and check for the state-required license by visiting our Web site, MyFloridaLicense.com. 

DBPR licenses and regulates swimming pool specialty contractors. Swimming pool specialty contractor licenses are issued in the areas of layout, structural, excavation, trim, decking, piping, and finishes.  Pool cleaning and water treatment does not require a DBPR license.  However, if someone you hire installs or takes apart equipment that is permanently attached to and associated with the pool for cleaning or water treatment, a DBPR license is required. Also, professionals who install hot tubs and in-ground spas need a DBPR license.

By working with state-licensed professionals, consumers can be sure that licensure requirements have been met, and if something were to go wrong, they can hold that professional accountable by filing a complaint with us.  We investigate complaints of wrongdoing by our licensees to help determine whether a violation of law or rule has occurred, which is an important part of consumer protection.

As you prepare for the hot summer months and begin thinking of home improvement projects, be sure to check for state-required licensure.

Sincerely,

Charlie Liem
Interim Secretary

Department of Business and
Professional Regulation
1940 North Monroe Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32399
Customer Contact Center:
850.487.1395
www.MyFloridaLicense.com