Received a DBPR Administrative Complaint in Florida?
What Contractors Should Do Next

If you received a DBPR Administrative Complaint, the matter has moved beyond the investigation stage.

At this point, the State is formally alleging that your conduct may constitute a violation of Florida contractor licensing law or applicable rules. This is a formal administrative proceeding, and deadlines matter.

The image appears to be distorted or corrupted with horizontal lines and color glitches, making it difficult to identify its contents clearly.

What happens next?

In many contractor cases, the Administrative Complaint is served with an Election of Rights and related notice materials.

Your response can affect how the case proceeds. DBPR final-order materials in contractor cases reflect a 21-day period from actual service to respond to the Administrative Complaint and Election of Rights materials.

Close-up of a shiny golden medal with a ribbon attached, resting on a brown surface.

What are your hearing options?

Your response may determine whether the matter proceeds through:

  • a formal hearing before an administrative law judge, generally when there are disputed issues of material fact, or

  • an informal hearing, generally when the material facts are not disputed. If disputed material facts arise during an informal hearing, Florida law provides that the matter must shift to a formal hearing.

A digital graphic with a dark background and streaks of red and yellow lines.

Can the case still be resolved?

Sometimes, yes.

Depending on the facts and procedural posture, some matters may still be resolved without taking the case all the way through hearing.

Every matter is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

What penalties are possible?

Potential disciplinary outcomes can include fines, probation, suspension, revocation, or other conditions affecting the license.

They can significantly affect a contractor’s ability to keep operating.

Attorney quote

“By the time an Administrative Complaint is filed, the case has entered a formal stage where deadlines, hearing elections, and the existing record can significantly affect how the matter proceeds. Each case must be evaluated on its own facts, procedural posture, and the governing law.”
— Zeyna Kafrouni, Founder, Kafrouni Law | Former DBPR Construction Prosecutor

Request a Confidential Consultation

If you received a DBPR Administrative Complaint, it is important to understand your options before responding.

Request a Confidential Consultation →
Image of a yellow and black graphic design with lines and shapes.

Confidential. Florida Statewide representation.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Do I have to respond to a DBPR Administrative Complaint in Florida?
A: Administrative Complaints require prompt attention. Deadlines matter, and failing to timely respond or elect rights may affect your ability to contest the allegations and how the case proceeds under Florida law.

Q: What is an Election of Rights in a DBPR case?
A: An Election of Rights is the document that determines the procedural path of the case, including whether the respondent requests a formal hearing or an informal hearing.

Q: What is DOAH?
A: DOAH is the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings. Formal hearings involving disputed issues of material fact are typically conducted there before an Administrative Law Judge.

Q: What is the difference between formal and informal hearings?
A: Formal hearings are used when there are disputed issues of material fact and involve evidentiary proceedings before an Administrative Law Judge. Informal hearings generally apply when material facts are not disputed and typically focus on discipline or mitigation before the licensing board.

Q: Can a DBPR Administrative Complaint still be resolved?
A: In some cases, resolution may still be possible after an Administrative Complaint is filed, depending on the specific facts, available evidence, and procedural posture.

Q: Will my contractor license be suspended immediately?
A: Not automatically. Many cases proceed through the standard administrative process, although emergency action may be authorized in limited circumstances under applicable law.

Q: What penalties can result from a DBPR Administrative Complaint?
A: Potential penalties may include fines, probation, license restrictions, suspension, or revocation, depending on the facts and applicable law.

Q: Can I keep working while the complaint is pending?
A: In many cases, a contractor may continue working while the matter is pending unless specific restrictions, emergency action, or a final order impose limitations. Each situation depends on the facts and any applicable orders. Expand this information here.

Q: Does a DBPR final order affect license renewal?
A: A final order may affect future licensure, including renewal and any conditions placed on the license, depending on the outcome and applicable requirements.

Q: Do I need an attorney for a DBPR Administrative Complaint?
A: Yes. DBPR disciplinary materials commonly include an Administrative Complaint, an Election of Rights form, and explanation materials with a response deadline stated in the served documents.

Common contractor questions at this stage

A digital distorted glitch image with yellow, black, red, and a few other colors.

IMPORTANT LEGAL NOTICE: This publication is for general informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Regulatory matters are governed by Chapters 455, 489, and 120, Florida Statutes, the Florida Administrative Code, and related Construction Industry Licensing Board rules. Outcomes depend on specific facts, procedural posture, and applicable law.