Can You Keep Working With a DBPR Complaint in Florida?
Yes — your contractor license is usually still active.
But what you do during this stage can determine whether your case:
resolves early
or escalates into discipline
Guidance from a former DBPR construction prosecutor on how to operate while your complaint is pending.
Where You Are Right Now in the DBPR Process
Complaint Filed → Investigation → Probable Cause → Administrative Complaint → Hearing
You are here: Investigation Stage
This is the stage where:
evidence is gathered
narratives are formed
cases are shaped before formal action
Can You Keep Working?
In most cases, yes.
A DBPR complaint does not automatically suspend your license.
You may continue working unless:
an emergency suspension is issued
restrictions are imposed
a final order is entered
However:
Your conduct during this period can directly impact the outcome
“Most contractors focus on whether they can keep working. The more important question is how their actions during this stage will be evaluated later.”— Zeyna Kafrouni, Esq., Former DBPR Prosecutor
What Contractors Should Do While a Complaint Is Pending
Maintain consistent, accurate documentation
Communicate carefully and professionally
Avoid informal or undocumented resolutions
Review contracts and project records immediately
Think in terms of how this will look if reviewed by DBPR
What Can Go Wrong During This Stage
Continuing Without Adjustments
You repeat the same issues → strengthens the case
Poor Communication
Messages and emails become evidence
Improper “Fixes”
Unstructured refunds or agreements → create new exposure
Expanding Risk
Taking on new projects without correcting issues
This is how small complaints become serious cases
Why This Stage Matters
From inside DBPR:
Investigations are not neutral
They are building a record
What is included — or missing — matters
Most cases are shaped here, not at the hearing
Protect Your License While You Still Have Control
You can continue working.
But the question is whether your actions during this stage are:
protecting your license
or quietly increasing risk
Request a confidential consultation to evaluate your position and next steps.
Confidential . Statewide Representation
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does DBPR automatically suspend my license when a complaint is filed?
A: Not automatically. Many matters proceed through investigation first, but exceptions can exist depending on facts and posture.
Q: Should I tell new clients about the complaint?
A: Be careful. You should not mislead clients, but you also should not volunteer unnecessary information that could be misunderstood. Seek legal guidance for your specific situation.
Q: Can I renew my license while a complaint is pending?
A: Often yes, but specific circumstances can affect renewal. Monitor deadlines and comply with requirements.
Q: Will DBPR contact my current clients?
A: It depends. Investigations can involve interviews, but not every case requires third-party outreach.
Q: What’s the fastest way to reduce risk while pending?
A: Documentation discipline: written change orders, clear payment records, and inspection documentation.
Q: Could a second complaint make the first one worse?
A: Multiple complaints can increase perceived risk and may influence disciplinary posture.
Q: What if the customer leaves a negative review while the case is pending?
A: Respond professionally and minimally; avoid discussing confidential or disputed facts publicly.
Q: Should I change my contract language going forward?
A: Improving contract clarity often helps, but consult counsel to tailor terms for your business model.