Floridians for Lawsuit Reform announced on X that it is advising homeowners to watch for signs of contractor fraud during National Contractor Fraud Awareness Week.
Contractor fraud remains a persistent issue, particularly in Florida, where frequent storm damage and high demand for home repairs create opportunities for unscrupulous individuals. According to the Florida Attorney General’s Office, common red flags include contractors who are unlicensed, uninsured, or unwilling to provide written agreements. Floridians for Lawsuit Reform emphasized these concerns during National Contractor Fraud Awareness Week, urging homeowners to verify credentials and trust their instincts when hiring contractors.
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) offers a license verification tool to help consumers confirm the legitimacy of contractors. This resource allows users to search by name, license number, or city to ensure that contractors are properly licensed and in good standing. Utilizing this tool can help homeowners avoid falling victim to contractor scams.
In 2024, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) reported that consumers lost over $1.4 billion to home improvement fraud and scams. The agency advises homeowners to obtain multiple estimates, avoid cash-only deals, and ensure that contractors provide notarized releases of lien from all subcontractors and suppliers before making payments. These precautions can protect consumers from financial loss and legal complications.
Floridians for Lawsuit Reform is a nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to promoting fairness and efficiency within Florida’s civil justice system. The group works to reduce lawsuit abuse, protect consumers from fraudulent practices, and support reforms that enhance legal accountability. Through public education and policy advocacy, Floridians for Lawsuit Reform aims to safeguard the rights and interests of Florida residents.