Getting repairs done after the storm

Ultimately, each home or business owner is responsible for making sure he or she hires a reputable contractor for repairs after a storm.

But state and county officials make it fairly easy for consumers to find licensed and reliable workers.

After Hurricane Wilma ripped up portions of Florida, Attorney General Charlie Crist declared war on unscrupulous contractors and price gougers.

But it's easier to choose a licensed contractor beforehand than to have state officials pursue an unscrupulous one that has absconded with your money.

To avoid unnecessary headaches, take the time to verify that a contractor is licensed.

A contractor can be licensed by a county or by the state. If a person claims to be licensed by Collier County or Lee County governments, call those specific offices.

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In Collier County, the Building Review & Permitting Department is responsible for enforcing county and state laws governing contractor licensing. Call (239) 403-2400.

For Lee County and Bonita Springs, call (239) 344-5895, and in Fort Myers call (239) 332-6760.

For a state-licensed contractor, contact the state's Department of Business and Professional Regulation at (850) 487-1395 or www.MyFloridaLicense.com.

For price-gouging complaints, call the Florida Attorney General's Office at (866) 966-7226.

For help, call the Florida Department of Financial Services (239) 461-4000 or 1-800-342-2762.