DBPR launches new mobile function for reporting unlicensed activity

Tallahassee, Fla. - The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) recently launched the “Report Unlicensed Activity” function within the DBPR Mobile app allowing consumers to report unlicensed activity in real time. The new function in the app is an addition to the department’s Unlicensed Activity annual media campaign and will provide consumers another channel to communicate directly with the department.

“When a person misrepresents themselves as having a professional license to do specialized work like an electrical contractor or roofer, we make every effort to ensure Florida families know how to get help in order to report the issue,” said DBPR Secretary Ken Lawson. “Unlicensed activity is against the law and this new app function allows Floridians to instantly report concerns to DBPR. As we work to bring unlicensed individuals into compliance with the law, this is just one more tool the department will have to better serve licensees and consumers.”

Consumers can submit complaints of unlicensed activity with descriptions and pictures directly from mobile devices and the complaint information is sent to DBPR headquarters in close to real time. To learn more about reporting unlicensed activity using the DBPR Mobile app, consumers can watch the how-to video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2MWba_rU_M. The DBPR Mobile app is free to download and is available on the iTunes and Google Play app stores.

This fiscal year, DBPR’s Division of Regulation has already been successful in conducting 18 stings throughout Florida by providing known unlicensed persons the opportunity to offer or perform services that require state licensure. From air conditioning contractors to construction contractors, reports of unlicensed activity to the department aid the division in carrying out more well-organized and successful sting operations. In an effort to suppress unlicensed activity in its entirety, the Division of Regulation also performs unannounced license checks in areas of known or suspected unlicensed activity. These sweeps are a proactive measure taken by the Department to promote licensure for professionals and businesses across Florida.

The most effective way to reduce the number of people who fall victim to unlicensed activity is to educate consumers and to enlist the aid of the public and industries. For this reason, DBPR’s 2013-2014 unlicensed activity campaign offers outreach programs to the public, professional associations and law enforcement. To learn more about DBPR’s unlicensed activity campaign and additional ways to report unlicensed activity in Florida, visit www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/ula.html.

The Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s mission is to license efficiently and regulate fairly. The Department licenses and regulates more than one million businesses and professionals ranging from hotels and restaurants, real estate agents and certified public accountants to veterinarians, contractors and cosmetologists. For more information, please visit www.myfloridalicense.com.

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