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Where to complain

By Times Staff
Published June 16, 2006

WHERE TO COMPLAIN

Have a problem and don't know where to turn? Here are some numbers to help you reach the right person or agency. Unless otherwise noted, phone numbers are area code 352.

Automobiles

To report problems with new cars under the state Lemon Law, call the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Lemon Law Hot Line toll-free 1-800-321-5366.

Business practices

For complaints about businesses, call the Better Business Bureau toll-free 1-800-525-1447. State Attorney's office: 754-4255.

Cable television

To report problems with your cable service, call Bright House Networks: (352) 796-3006.

Civil litigation

Small Claims Courts: Hernando, 754-4207. Free legal services for qualified, low-income residents: 796-7238. Lawyer referral services (Florida Bar): toll-free 1-800-342-8060. Hernando courthouse switchboard, 754-4201.

Condominiums

To complain about a condominium, call toll-free 1-800-226-6028 or 1-800-226-9101 or request a form from Complaints, Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Division of Land Sales and Condominiums, 1940 N Monroe St., Tallahassee, FL 32399-1030, or call toll-free 1-800-342-7940.

Contractors

Having problems with a contractor? In Hernando, call the building department at 754-4109.

Dogs and other strays

Hernando County Animal Control, 796-5062.

Electric service

Hernando county residents, excluding Brooksville and surrounding area, should report problems with their electric service to Withlacoochee River Electric Co-op, 596-4000. Brooksville residents, served by Florida Power Corp., should call 544-6223 or toll-free 1-800-700-8744.

Food

Restaurant complaints should go to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Division of Hotels and Restaurants, 3725 W Grace St., Suite 520, Tampa, FL 33607, (850) 487-1395. Grocery store complaints should go to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, toll-free 1-800-435-7352.

Health care

To report abuse, call the Abuse Hotline toll-free 1-800-962-2873. Complaints about quality of care or bills from hospitals, nursing homes, ACLFs and home health care facilities: Agency for Health Care Administration, 2727 Mahan Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32308-5403, toll-free 1-888-419-3456.

Landlord-tenant disputes

For disputes about maintenance or security deposits involving an apartment with five or more units, (no individual housing), and for problems with hotel billing, write the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Division of Hotels and Restaurants, 1313 N Tampa St., Room 106, Tampa, FL 33602. For a free copy of the Florida landlord/tenant law, call toll-free 1-800-435-7352.

Phone problems

BellSouth phone repair service: 611.

School system

Hernando County School Board: 797-7000.

[Last modified June 16, 2006, 07:05:13]