CLEARWATER — In an effort to protect consumers and uphold professional standards, Better Business Bureaus serving Florida (BBB) are launching a comprehensive awareness campaign focused on combating unlicensed activity in Florida.

BBB reminds Floridians to thoroughly research professionals and businesses prior to hiring and to report suspected unlicensed individuals. Unlicensed activity is against the law — BBB takes unlicensed activity very seriously because it threatens the safety of Florida’s consumers and takes away business from licensed professionals throughout the state.

Unlicensed activity poses significant risks to consumer, communities, and legitimate businesses. By operating without proper licensure, individuals and entities offering services such as contracting, cosmetology, real estate and healthcare may lack the necessary qualifications, insurance, and oversight, potentially endangering the public and undermining the integrity of licensed professionals.

To avoid these potential hazards, homeowners should verify they are dealing with a licensed professional. The first step is to verify a license with DBPR. Homeowners can visit DBPR’s website at MyFloridaLicense.com or call their customer contact center.

In addition to a license, homeowners should also ask for proof of insurance. Contractors should carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance to protect themselves and the homeowner in case of an accident or injury.

Consumers should also ask for references, examples of work, check a business’s track record at BBB.org and look for the BBB Accredited Business Seal to know the company is committed to BBB’s standards of trust in the marketplace.

“Licensed professionals play a vital role in ensuring the quality and safety of services provided to the public,” said Karen Nalven, President/CEO of Better Business Bureau serving West Florida. “By raising awareness and encouraging collaboration between regulatory agencies and industry stakeholders, we can combat unlicensed activity and protect the interests of consumers and businesses alike.”

BBB has online resources to educate consumers on how to hire a licensed professional with a good track record and to report unlicensed activity.

• To find BBB Accredited Businesses and access the Florida Licensing Guide visit: BBB.org/consumers.

• Report unlicensed activity to BBB visit https://www.bbb.org/file-a-complaint
and to DBPR at https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/unlicensed-activity/