IMPORTANT NEWS...
Department of Business and Professional Regulation Sweeps Jacksonville Flea Market for Unlicensed Cosmetologists and Barbers
March 12, 2010
JACKSONVILLE—Yesterday, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, in partnership with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, completed an unlicensed cosmetology and barber sweep at the Norwood Flea Market in Jacksonville. Department investigators conducted the sweep after receiving complaints about unlicensed activity at the location. Investigators checked six licenses, issued two citations, one cease and desist and opened four cases against licensed establishments for hiring unlicensed professionals.
“Consumers are our partners in combating unlicensed activity,” said Interim Secretary Liem. “I would like to thank those who called in these tips and encourage others to do the same.”
Hiring an unlicensed individual can threaten the financial and personal safety of consumers, as well as the livelihood of state-licensed professionals. Unlicensed individuals may not carry workers’ compensation or liability insurance, and consumers may end up paying for injuries on the job. Additionally, unlicensed individuals often underbid licensed professionals, which results in law-abiding professionals losing work to those who do not meet state licensure requirements.
Here are some general tips to help consumers protect themselves against unlicensed activity:
• Always ask to see the State of Florida license.
• Note the license number and verify that the license is current. 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.
• Report suspected unlicensed activity at MyFloridaLicense.com or toll-free at 1-866-532-1440.
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.