Take Action
Sometimes the warning signs aren’t clear until it’s too late. A project may already be underway—or even finished—before you realize the person you hired wasn’t properly licensed. If something doesn’t feel right, you’re not alone, and you’re not without options. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s (DBPR) Unlicensed Activity Program (ULA) provides clear ways to check licenses, report concerns, and get help if you believe unlicensed activity may be involved.
It’s Not Uncommon to Learn You’ve Been a Victim of Unlicensed Activity
Unlicensed individuals often present themselves as legitimate professionals. In some cases, consumers may not discover a problem until they experience poor workmanship, unexpected costs, incomplete projects, or issues when trying to sell or insure their property.
If something doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts. Taking action can help protect you and prevent others from being harmed.
File a Complaint
If you believe you may have encountered unlicensed activity, filing a complaint is an important step toward protecting yourself and others. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s (DBPR) Unlicensed Activity Program (ULA) reviews complaints to determine whether an investigation is warranted and to help stop unlicensed individuals from continuing to operate.
You can submit a complaint online, by phone at 1-866-532-1440, by email or through the DBPR mobile app. Providing accurate and complete information helps investigators conduct a thorough investigation.
Search a Complaint
Before submitting a report, consider searching DBPR’s database to see whether the individual or business has already been reported.
Reviewing a company’s complaint history can help you:
- Confirm whether an issue has already been reported
- Provide additional information to an existing case
- Better understand patterns of unlicensed activity
Search Complaints
What Can I Expect?
Once your complaint is submitted, it will be reviewed to determine whether it is legally sufficient under Florida law. If your complaint meets the legal requirements:
- It may be assigned for investigation
- Investigators may contact you for additional information
- The matter may result in enforcement action, such as a Notice to Cease and Desist, citation, or referral for prosecution
If your complaint does not meet legal requirements, DBPR will notify you and, when possible, suggest next steps or alternative options.
Please note that DBPR does not represent individual consumers and cannot provide legal advice.
Interested in Learning More?
Have questions about reporting a complaint, staying anonymous, or documents may be needed? Find answers to these topics and more on our Frequently Asked Questions page.
View Our FAQs