Before You Hire
More than one million professionals in Florida require a license for a reason—when the work isn’t done correctly, the consequences can be devastating.
Our team sees the impact every day: house fires caused by handymen doing electrical work, individuals blinded by unlicensed cosmetic procedures, pets injured by people performing veterinary services without training. Cutting corners doesn’t just cost money—it puts lives and livelihoods at risk. It also undercuts legitimate small businesses that have invested the time, training, and resources to become qualified and follow the law.
Here’s a snapshot of just some of the complaints the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s (DBPR) Unlicensed Activity (ULA) program received during FY 2024-2025:
2,830
Construction Complaints
Unlicensed services that can put homeowner’s property and safety at risk
1,080
Cosmetology & Barbering Complaints
Unlicensed services that put clients at risk of injury and infection
35
Veterinary Medicine Complaints
Unlicensed providers performing services that harmed or endangered pets
59
Mold-Related Complaints
Unqualified assessments or remediation that created health and structural risks
In each of these cases, a few simple checks before hiring would have ensured the professional was properly licensed.
What is Unlicensed Activity?
Unlicensed activity happens when someone takes on work they aren’t qualified or legally allowed to do. Unlicensed individuals do more than just skip the paperwork—they skip the safety standards, background checks, and training required to protect the public.
See What Requires a License
What’s the Harm?
Unlicensed activity isn’t just illegal—it’s dangerous.
When someone works without a license, the safeguards that protect you disappear. Too often, people don’t realize they hired an unlicensed individual until a project fails, money is lost, or someone gets hurt.
Financial Cost
Licensed professionals protect you while unlicensed individuals leave you exposed. Hiring an unlicensed individual can quickly become more expensive than hiring a licensed professional. Examples include:
- Paying twice to fix or redo substandard work
- Losing deposits to someone who disappears after being paid
- Costly delays when work fails inspection or requires re-permitting
- Insurance cancellations due to unlicensed work on the property
- Inability to sell the property due to missing permits
Health & Safety Threats
Licensing exists to keep you safe. When someone bypasses that system, you bear the risk. Unlicensed activity can lead to serious safety risks, such as:
- Electrical fires caused by improper wiring
- Mold exposure from faulty assessments
- Unsafe structural alterations
- Infections from improper cosmetology or barbering services
- Criminal activity—some unlicensed providers use their access to target vulnerable residents
Harms the Livelihoods of Small Businesses
Unlicensed activity doesn’t just harm consumers—it undercuts licensed professionals who follow the rules, carry insurance, pay fees, and maintain training. When you hire unlicensed individuals, you’re:
- Underpricing legitimate businesses
- Taking work away from qualified providers
- Eroding trust in licensed professions
- Hurting Florida’s skilled workforce
What to Look For: Red Flags & Common Scams
Unlicensed individuals often rely on pressure, urgency, and promises that sound too good to be true. Knowing the warning signs can help you avoid costly mistakes.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Scammers may show up unannounced, push you to “act now,” or claim they’re working in the neighborhood. Legitimate professionals don’t pressure you into quick decisions.
Large Upfront Payments
Requests for big deposits—or payment in full before work begins—are major red flags. Licensed contractors typically follow standard payment schedules and provide documentation, including written documentation.
No Written Contract
Unlicensed providers often avoid written contracts to dodge accountability. A professional will document the scope of work, materials, timelines, and costs.
No License Number on Ads or Business Cards
Florida law requires licensed contractors to display their license number on advertisements, websites, business materials and contracts. If you can’t find it, verify it—or walk away.
“We Don’t Need a Permit”
Anyone who tells you they can skip permits is putting you at risk. Unpermitted work can lead to fines, failed inspections, and major issues when selling your home.
Suspiciously Low Bids
Extremely low prices often signal someone cutting corners—or who never intends to finish the job. Licensed professionals price work based on materials, experience, and safety requirements.
Cash-Only Payments
While cash may seem convenient, scammers prefer it because it leaves no trail. Reputable contractors accept multiple forms of payment and provide receipts.
“Free” Inspections That Lead to Repairs
Some individuals offer free inspections and then claim urgent or hidden damage that needs immediate attention. These situations often lead to pressure to sign agreements or move forward with costly repairs before you’ve had time to verify the issue.
Get Practical Tips for Home Repair & Improvement Projects
One of the largest and most costly areas we see unlicensed activity is in home projects. From repairs and remodels to storm-related work, hiring the wrong person can put your property and finances at risk. Visit our Hire Smart FL site for step-by-step guidance on hiring safely and more tips to avoid common scams.
Explore Hire Smart FL
You Play a Key Role in Stopping Unlicensed Activity
Stopping unlicensed activity is a community effort, and your actions make a difference.
Verify Before You Hire
Always verify a license before you agree to any work. It takes seconds and can save you thousands.
See What Requires a License
Help Keep Your Neighbors Safe
If you see unlicensed activity or suspect someone is offering services they are not licensed to perform, report it. Your report helps stop scams, prevent injuries, and protect others in your community.
Report Unlicensed Activity
Have You Been a Victim of Unlicensed Activity?
You are not alone—and DBPR may be able to help. Learn what steps to take, how to recover financially, and how to pursue enforcement.
Get Help