10/23/2026
🚨 50 ARRESTED IN FLORIDA CONTRACTOR STING — HOMEOWNERS, PLEASE READ! ⚡🏠
A recent undercover investigation in Hillsborough County, Florida, called “Operation Bad Builder,” resulted in 50 arrests involving people allegedly offering contracting services without the required licenses.
Investigators posed as homeowners and requested quotes for work involving electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other trades.
Why should Alabama homeowners care?
Because this can happen anywhere, including right here in our communities.
As a licensed electrical contractor, I understand that electrical work can be expensive. I also understand why homeowners shop around for the best price. There's absolutely nothing wrong with that!
But there's a BIG difference between getting a good deal and unknowingly putting your home, family, and finances at risk.
⚡ HERE ARE 7 THINGS EVERY HOMEOWNER SHOULD KNOW BEFORE HIRING AN ELECTRICIAN:
✅ 1. VERIFY THEIR LICENSE.
Don't just take someone's word for it. In Alabama, you can verify electrical contractor licensing through the Alabama Electrical Contractors Board at aecb.alabama.gov.
Be aware that Alabama has licensing exemptions for certain work. Ask whether the contractor and the work being performed meet applicable licensing requirements.
✅ 2. ASK ABOUT INSURANCE.
Ask for proof of general liability insurance and applicable workers' compensation coverage. If something goes wrong, you want to know what protections are in place.
✅ 3. DON'T CONFUSE CHEAP WITH AFFORDABLE.
A lower quote isn't automatically a better deal. Make sure you're comparing the same materials, scope of work, permits, warranties, and installation standards.
Sometimes the cheapest job becomes the most expensive one when it has to be corrected.
✅ 4. ASK WHO IS PULLING THE PERMIT.
Not every electrical repair requires a permit, but many larger projects do. Ask whether your project requires one, who is responsible for obtaining it, and whether an inspection will be performed.
🚩 Be cautious if someone suggests avoiding a required permit to save money.
✅ 5. GET EVERYTHING IN WRITING.
A professional quote should clearly explain what work is being performed, what's included, and what you're paying for.
Don't rely solely on verbal promises.
✅ 6. UNDERSTAND YOUR WARRANTY.
Ask what happens if something fails after the job is completed. Who do you call? What's covered? How long does coverage last?
A warranty is only as valuable as the company standing behind it.
✅ 7. CHECK THE COMPANY'S REPUTATION.
Look at reviews, how long they've been operating, how they respond to complaints, and whether they have an established local presence.
A professional-looking advertisement or page does NOT automatically mean someone is properly licensed.
⚠️ ONE MORE IMPORTANT THING:
Not everyone working without a license is intentionally trying to scam someone, and having a license doesn't automatically make someone a great contractor.
But licensing, insurance, proper permitting, and accountability exist for very good reasons.
Electrical work isn't just about making the lights come on. It's about making sure your electrical system is installed safely and protects your family for years to come.
At Superior Service Electric, LLC, we believe homeowners deserve to understand exactly what they're paying for and feel confident about who's working in their homes.
We're family-owned, locally operated, and proud to serve our North Jefferson County neighbors and surrounding Alabama communities.
🔌 Alabama Master Electrician License #05420
📞 (205) 433-4022
🌐 superiorservice247.com
My advice: No matter WHO you hire, do your homework first. Your family's safety is worth more than saving a few dollars.
— Tony L. Fields
Owner & Master Electrician
Superior Service Electric, LLC
📰 Source: Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office — Operation Bad Builder, October 2026.
