Santa Rosa County warns of contractor scams after storms

Santa Rosa County Building Inspections is alerting residents to be on guard against unlicensed contractors and scammers seeking to exploit homeowners dealing with storm damage repairs.

Following major storms, con artists and unqualified workers often target property owners trying to fix damage quickly. The county is urging residents to take precautions before hiring anyone for repairs, including roofing, electrical, or structural work.

Key steps to protect yourself: verify any contractor's license through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation at MyFloridaLicense.com; avoid door-to-door solicitations or pressure to make quick decisions; never pay the full project cost upfront, especially in cash; get all work details in writing with a contract covering scope, materials, cost, payment schedule, and completion date; and confirm whether permits are required—many storm repairs do need them.

Red flags to watch for include contractors who won't provide license information, discourage permits or inspections, or ask you to pull a permit as an owner-builder when they'll actually do the work. Santa Rosa County Building Inspections can answer questions at (850) 981-7000 before you hire. To report suspected unlicensed contracting, contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation online.