Where to complain
By TIMES WIRES
Published January 29, 2007
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.
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.
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.