Home Repair Fraud
Home Repair and Hurricane-Related Problems/Frauds
Florida Attorney General: General Fraud Helpline -- 1-866-966-7226. The focus is on issues affecting many consumers, especially price-gouging during states of emergency. However, individual consumers are welcome to call; they will be advised;if necessary, they will be referred, likely to one of the following:
Seniors v. Crime -- 1-800-203-3099. This AG's project involves local senior volunteers who assist individual consumers by investigating complaints, contacting perpetrators, and generally attempting to get positive results.
Department of Business and Professional Regulation -- 1-850-487-1395 (main number). For complaints against licensed (usually "structural") contractors (distinguish painters, kitchen remodelers, etc. who may not be required to be licensed). The Complaint Division number is 850-488-6603.
Department of Agriculture & Consumer Affairs - "General" Consumer Hotline- 800-435-7352. For a wide array of consumer issues; also for home repair contractors who do not require a license.
DBPR also administers the Florida Homeowners' Construction Recovery Fund -- 850-487-1395. The Fund reimburses certain qualified homeowners w/ a final administrative or court judgment against a contractor. Note: Filing a complaint is not the same as filing a claim on the fund.
Department of Finance -- 1-800-342-2762. This agency is concerned with insurance, mortgage and other financial issues. Also, if the home repair in question was financed by homeowners' insurance, this agency is interested.
Re: Mobile home Repair/Replacement/Sales, etc. Depending on the issue, DBPR may be helpful.
For issues with mobile home parks with condo/co-op ownership structures, call 850-488-1122.
For mobile home parks where lots are leased only, call DBPR main number (850-487-1395).
For construction problems involving mobile homes, call 850-488-8600.
For transfer of title issues re: mobile homes, call the local office of the Department of Highway Safety and Transportation.
