Report Construction Fraud

Please note: Effective July 1, 2021, Florida Statutes, as amended by Senate Bill 60, require a name and address to be provided in order to report potential violations of codes and ordinances for investigation.

Things to consider

• We will not hold you responsible if you unknowingly hire an unlicensed contractor

• You could get a fine of up to $500 and be charged with aiding and abetting if you knowingly hire an unlicensed contractor
• If you have a problem with the work done by the unlicensed individual, there is little that the County or State can do to help you
• If a contractor is caught working without a license they can receive the following penalties:
  • Fine of up to $2000 per violation
  • Arrested and charged with acting as a contractor without being properly licensed
• Check out our contractor licensing section for requirements for licensing in Hillsborough County and reciprocation with other counties
  • Business Tax Receipts, formerly known as Occupational Licenses, are issued by the Tax Collector's Office. These are not the same thing as a contractor's license.

How to report construction fraud

1. Gather the following information:
   • Address of the complaint
   • Nearest major intersection
   • Description of the the complaint
   • Photos or files to support your complaint (optional)
2. Submit online form
3. If you prefer to make a report over the phone, please call (813) 272-5600

What's next

Resources

• Construction Code Ordinances (Municode)
• Florida's Construction Lien Law (DBPR)
• Search for a contractor license in the State of Florida (DBPRR)
• Searching for Permits and Records on HillsGovHub Guide
• Search HillsGovHub
• Contractor Licensing Help
• Work that doesn't require a permit

Get help

Department: Development Services
Email: permitting@hcfl.gov
Phone: (813) 272-5600