Research Before You Repair News Emergency Management, News General Research Before You RepairTAMPA, Fla. (October 23, 2024) As storm repair work picks up, the City of Tampa is[...]

Research Before You Repair

TAMPA, Fla. (October 23, 2024) -- As storm repair work picks up, the City of Tampa is reminding the public to beware of contractor fraud, price gouging, and other issues that may arise during this next stage of recovery.

While the law of supply and demand may lead to some price increases, during a State of Emergency, as is the case currently for the City of Tampa and neighboring cities and counties, the price of essential commodities should not increase and a gross disparity between the current price and the price 30-days prior to a State of Emergency is considered price gouging. Examples of essential commodities include lumber, generators, gas, shelter and remediation services like tree removal or roofing repair. Suspected cases of price gouging should be reported to the Attorney General's Price Gouging Hotline at 1-866-NO-SCAM or 1-866-966-7226.

The rush to get repairs done may also lead homeowners to choose the most expensive offer. Once homeowners verify repair work will be covered under their insurance policy, they should obtain at least three estimates and ensure the company they select is properly licensed and insured by checking on floridalicense.com. Contractors must also be bonded and verified with a bonding agency to protect the homeowner if the contractor fails to perform necessary tasks relating to the initial agreement. Lastly, the full amount of a repair expense should never be paid upfront and large deposits are cause for concern.

To lessen the burden of repairs, the City of Tampa is waiving fees on damage permit applications related to hurricanes Helene and Milton. This applies to specific types of permits listed below:

• Roof repair/roof replacement over 500 SF
• All electrical-related activities related to storm damage
• Garage door replacement
• HVAC mechanical change-out
• Hot water heater change-out
• Replacement of multiple exterior doors
• Alteration permits to include wall repair/wall replacement
• Demolition permits related to storm damage

Q-Up Tampa offers virtual appointments for permits and plan review consultations, allowing homeowners to meet with Construction Services staff from anywhere. For more information and resources on repair work, please visit tampa.gov/construction-services.