Recovering After a Storm
After a storm, priorities shift to recovery and getting life back to normal. Unfortunately, these moments can also attract unlicensed individuals who take advantage of homeowners and businesses. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s (DBPR) Unlicensed Activity Program (ULA) helps protect Floridians during recovery by providing reliable information and connecting communities to trusted resources.
DBPR’s Role in Storm Recovery
In storm-impacted communities, DBPR increases outreach, enforcement, and education efforts to help prevent unlicensed activity during recovery. Investigators and staff may be deployed to affected areas to:
- Educate consumers on the importance of hiring licensed professionals
- Conduct compliance checks and proactive enforcement
- Coordinate with law enforcement, building departments, and other state agencies
- Help stop unlicensed activity before additional harm occurs
These efforts help communities recover while protecting people from further harm.
Avoid Post-Storm Scams
Storm-related scams often appear quickly after a disaster. Be cautious if someone:
- Demands full payment upfront
- Pressures you to act immediately
- Cannot provide a valid Florida DBPR license
- Offers to “handle” insurance claims for you
- Requests payment in cash only
Always verify a professional’s license before hiring and report suspected unlicensed activity.
Read More About Scams & Red Flags
Disaster Contractors Network (DCN)
DCN connects consumers with licensed contractors who meet specific licensing and compliance standards during disaster recovery.
Using the DCN can help you:
- Find licensed professionals ready to assist after a storm
- Reduce the risk of fraud or unlicensed work
- Move forward with greater confidence during recovery
Find a Licensed Contractor using DCN
Multi-Agency Resource Centers
Multi-Agency Resource Centers (MARCs) bring together state, local, and nonprofit partners to provide in-person assistance to storm-impacted communities and are available after a storm has passed.
You can locate open MARCs and available services through the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s ArcGIS map.
View Multi-Agency Resource Centers Map
Get Help
Several state agencies and partners are available to assist with recovery, consumer protection, and support services:
Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS)
Insurance assistance and fraud reporting
[LEARN MORE]
Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM)
Disaster response and recovery resources
[LEARN MORE]
State Emergency Response Team (SERT)
Coordinated emergency support
[LEARN MORE]
HOPE Florida
Connections to community-based assistance and support services
[LEARN MORE]
Florida Commerce
Business recovery and economic support
[LEARN MORE]
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Scam alerts and business reliability information
[LEARN MORE]
Seniors vs. Crime
Assistance for older Floridians who may be targeted by scams
[LEARN MORE]
State Attorney’s Office (SAO)
Criminal prosecution of fraud and unlicensed activity
[LEARN MORE]
Guides & Resources
DBPR and partners provide practical resources to help Floridians prepare for and recover after a storm, including guidance on avoiding scams and hiring licensed professionals.
These guides offer step-by-step information, safety tips, and important contact information for post-storm recovery.
DBPR Hurricane Guide
BBB Hurricane Resources
State of Emergency Orders
State of Emergency orders may temporarily affect licensing, permitting, or regulatory requirements during disaster response and recovery. Stay informed about current emergency declarations and related orders that may apply to your area.
View Current State of Emergency Orders