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On March 1st and 2nd 2023 the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), conducted a sting operation focusing on unlicensed contractor activity.
DBPR researched unlicensed contractors advertising services that require a state license. A DBPR investigator posed as a homeowner and interacted with contractors who had agreed to come and give an estimate on work.
As a result of the investigation, six area unlicensed contractors are now facing charges. The Okaloosa County Department of Growth Management also assisted in the investigation.
“With the 2023 hurricane season underway, it’s imperative the public realize how critical it is to make sure anyone they hire to do repairs around their home is licensed and insured. It only takes a few minutes check on-line and be sure you are taking the right steps to protect your property and your finances from unlicensed contractors who are violating the law,” said Sheriff Eric Aden.
“Thanks to Sheriff Aden and all of our local partners statewide for working with DBPR to protect consumers from unlicensed activity scams,” added DBPR Secretary Melanie S. Griffin. “We encourage homeowners and business owners to verify contractor licenses at MyFloridaLicense.com to ensure they hire a licensed professional with the experience and insurance coverage necessary to get the job done right, without leaving residents on the hook financially for damages or dangerous, faulty work.”
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