Florida Consumer E-Newsletter |
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A Message From the Commissioner...
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Dear Friends: This year’s hurricane season has been predicted to be just as busy as last year’s. With that in mind it is critical to ensure you are prepared and you have the information you need to make good decisions, both before and after the storm. If assistance is available, knowing how to access it makes the process of recovery faster and less stressful. |
It is important to remember that every area in the state of Florida is vulnerable in some way to the potentially destructive forces of hurricanes; both with property damage the hurricane can cause and also the potential of becoming a victim of fraud from the unscrupulous people the aftermath of the hurricane attracts. The important factors in keeping you and your family safe from harm and possible deception is being prepared and informed. We have put together some general tips to help consumers like you, to begin getting your home, your community, and your life back to normal after disaster strikes. Sincerely, |
Price Gouging
In the wake of a natural disaster, essentials -- such as fuel, food, ice, generators, lanterns, lumber, lodging, etc. -- may be in short supply. Charging exorbitant or excessive prices for these and other necessities following a disaster is not only unethical, it's illegal. Under Sections 501.160 and 501.205 Florida Statutes, it is illegal to charge unconscionable prices for goods or services following a declared state of emergency. Individuals or businesses found guilty of price gouging could face fines up to $1,000 per violation, or up to a maximum of $25,000 per day.
You can report price gouging by calling the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352), or you can file a complaint online.
Home Repair
Know your contractor. A frequent problem after a disaster is "fly-by-night" contractor who takes deposits before starting work or final payments before finishing. Beware of repair businesses or individuals who solicit door-to-door, arrive in unmarked vehicles, have a post office box or temporary address, claim they are from another county or state and are in the area solely to help disaster victims, or offer to work for you only if you secure the necessary permits.
Get at least three estimates. Be certain the estimates are itemized and for the same exact work and materials.
Make sure you obtain information about the Florida's Construction Lien Law by calling the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation at (850) 487-1395. It is very important that you understand how this law works to ensure you don't pay twice for the same job.
Check on the contractor's address, license and complaint history by contacting the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation through their web site located at www.myfloridalicense.com or via telephone at 850-487-1395, or contact your city or county building department. For further complaint information, call us at 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352).
Have a written contract for your repairs and understand it before you sign. Make sure the contract includes beginning and completion dates, materials used, warranties or guarantees and final costs.
Giving to Charity
Beware of people soliciting contributions on behalf of victims of a natural disaster. Ask the name of the organization they represent. Do not judge an organization solely on a name that sounds impressive. Many organizations use names similar to well-known charities and organizations. Know who is asking for your money.
Beware of pressure tactics. Reputable organizations won't pressure you to give today; they will gladly accept your gift at a future date.
Not all organizations soliciting are true charities eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. Ask if donations are tax deductible. Verify the information with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Never give cash. Contribute by check payable to the organization, never to an individual's name.
Charitable solicitation organizations must register with the state. To check on a group's registration or complaint history, call the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352). You can also view our online Gift Givers' Guide for a specific charity’s financial information.
For more consumer information, or help finding the right resource for assistance, give us a call today at 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) calling within Florida, 850-488-2221 outside of Florida, 1-800-FL-AYUDA (352-9832) ¡Español!, and a consumer support specialist will be happy to assist you.
Additional Resources
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The links below are for your information only. The goal of the Division of Consumer Services is to provide additional information to consumers. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services does not review or confirm these sites for accuracy.
Florida Division of Emergency Management
Florida DisasterThe State Emergency Responce Team's (SERT) mission is to ensure that Florida is prepared to respond to emergencies, recover from them and mitigate against their impacts.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
FEMA's mission is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program.
