The Complaint Process
What Happens After a Complaint is Filed
Filing a complaint is an important step in protecting yourself—and helping protect others. Once your complaint is submitted, it begins a formal review process through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). While every case is different and timelines may vary, most complaints follow a consistent process. Understanding what happens next can help you know what to expect.
Complaint Process Steps
Complaint Submitted
Your complaint is received and reviewed to ensure it includes enough information to move forward.
Providing clear details and supporting documentation at the start can help avoid delays.
Your submission is evaluated to determine whether it falls within DBPR’s authority and whether additional information is needed.
You may be asked to provide supporting documents such as:
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Contracts or proposals
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Invoices and proof of payment
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Advertisements or written correspondence
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Permits or liens (for construction-related complaints)
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Community association or management documents (if applicable)
Only copies should be submitted, as original documents cannot be returned.
If additional documentation is requested, it must be provided within 30 days, or the case may be closed.
DBPR determines whether:
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The individual or business is licensed (or operating without a license)
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The complaint falls within DBPR’s regulatory authority
If the issue falls outside the agency’s jurisdiction, you may be directed to another agency for assistance.
If a complaint meets the criteria, it may be assigned to an investigator.
During this phase:
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The subject of the complaint is notified and provided a copy of the complaint
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Evidence is gathered and reviewed
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Investigators may conduct interviews, site visits, or coordinate with other agencies
Investigations vary in complexity, so timelines can differ significantly from one case to another.
By law, complaints and investigative information are confidential during this stage.
Under Chapter 455, Florida Statutes:
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Information remains confidential until a finding of probable cause is made
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Or until the subject waives confidentiality
This helps protect the integrity of the investigation.
After reviewing the investigation, DBPR determines whether there is legally sufficient evidence of a violation of a Florida statute or rule.
If probable cause is found, the case may proceed to disciplinary action.
If a violation is confirmed, DBPR may take administrative action such as:
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Reprimand
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Fines or administrative costs
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Restrictions on practice
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Probation
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License suspension or revocation
For unlicensed activity, enforcement actions may also be taken to stop illegal work.
Once the process is complete, the case is resolved.
Every Complaint is Different.
The length of an investigation depends on the complexity of the case, the availability of evidence and the cooperation of involved parties. Because of this, a specific timeline for completion cannot be guaranteed.
Our Role
DBPR enforces licensing laws and professional standards. Their actions are administrative, not civil.
This means:
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The agency can discipline licensed professionals and take action against unlicensed activity
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However, DBPR cannot represent you in court or recover money on your behalf
If you are seeking financial recovery or damages, you may need to consult a private attorney. If your complaint involves a licensed contractor, you may be able to recover a portion of your losses through the Florida Homeowners’ Construction Recovery Fund, which is designed to assist homeowners harmed by certain violations.
Complaint FAQs
Find answers to commonly asked questions about confidentiality, filing anonymously, how to submit documents and more on our Frequently Asked Questions page.
View Our FAQs