Hillsborough County deputies arrested 50 people during a four-month sting targeting unlicensed contractors. Operation Bad Builder ran from June 1 through Oct. 2, with detectives from the Construction Fraud Unit reviewing online ads, following up on resident complaints, and arranging undercover meetings to catch suspects in the act. Among those arrested were Calvin Wilson, 40, accused of taking on home-improvement projects that left homes in worse condition, and Steven Andreassen, 56, accused of performing electrical work without a license.
Sheriff Chad Chronister stressed that a contractor’s license is more than paperwork: it’s proof the person working on your home has the training to do the job safely. Unlicensed workers touching wiring, roofing, or foundations put families at risk and can leave homeowners with costly damage and little recourse.
Before hiring anyone for repairs or renovations, verify their license through the Florida DBPR, get estimates in writing, and never pay the full amount upfront. If you suspect you’ve been the victim of an unlicensed contractor, contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. Have you ever checked a contractor’s license before hiring? Tell us in the comments.
