Protect Yourself
Hiring someone to work on your home is a big decision. Each year, Florida homeowners report thousands of issues related to construction and home repair—many involving unlicensed individuals and resulting in poor workmanship, unfinished projects, or financial loss.
While most contractors do quality work, certain scams continue to appear—especially after storms or during times of high demand, when unlicensed individuals often take advantage of the situation. Knowing what to look for can help you make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and protect your investment.
Know the Signs. Avoid the Scams.
Watch for these Common Scams
Roofing Scams
Roofing scams often begin with a “free inspection” and a claim that urgent repairs are needed. Homeowners may feel pressured to sign agreements on the spot or pay upfront, only to receive poor-quality work—or no work at all.
Driveway & Paving Scams
Some contractors approach homeowners claiming they have leftover materials from another job and can offer a discounted rate. What starts as a good deal can quickly change, with rising costs, low-quality materials, and results that don’t last.
“Free Inspection” Scams
Offers of free inspections can be used to identify—or exaggerate—problems that may not exist. These situations often involve claims of hidden damage and pressure to move forward with costly repairs without time to verify the issue.
Permit Evasion
Some individuals may suggest that permits are not necessary or ask homeowners to pull permits themselves. This can result in work that does not meet code requirements and may lead to fines, failed inspections, or complications with insurance and resale.
Large Deposit / Disappearing Contractor
In some cases, a contractor may request a significant upfront payment and then delay, perform incomplete work, or stop responding altogether. These situations can leave homeowners with unfinished projects and unexpected financial loss.
Quick Sign Contracts
Some contractors may pressure consumers to quickly check boxes or sign documents on a phone or tablet without fully reviewing the terms. The agreements may include expensive financing terms, large payment obligations, or authorizations the consumer did not intend to approve.
The #1 Step You can Take
Protect Your Home
Most these scams listed above involve individuals who are not properly licensed or accountable for their work. Hiring a licensed contractor helps ensure they meet state requirements, carry appropriate insurance when required, have the skills to do the job right, and are accountable for the work they perform.
Before you hire, take a moment to verify their license. It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your home and your investment.
What to Look For
Unlicensed Activity
Red Flags
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.
No Written Contract
Unlicensed providers often avoid written contracts to dodge accountability. A professional will document the scope of work, materials, timelines, and costs.
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 written agreements.
No License Number on Ads or Business Cards
Florida law requires licensed contractors to display their license number on advertisements, websites, and business materials. If you can’t find it, verify it—or walk away.
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.
The Real Cost of Unlicensed Activity
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
- Medical or legal bills if an uninsured worker is injured on your job site
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
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.