48 Cases of Unlicensed AC and Electrical Work Uncovered in Texas Sting Operation

AUSTIN, TX –This month, 48 cases of unlicensed activity in the air conditioning and electrical industries were caught in a Houston-area sting conducted by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). TDLR worked with the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) as part of a national effort.

TDLR’s enforcement team conducted the operation June 4 -7, 2018, and identified 48 cases that will be opened against unlicensed individuals for offering to perform work that required licensure in the air conditioning and electrical industries. 

“This coordinated effort with NASCLA provided a great opportunity to increase awareness and educate the public on the risks of hiring someone who is unlicensed,” said Brian E. Francis, TDLR Executive Director. “These efforts protect consumers, enhance public safety, and ensure a fair level playing field for licensed contractors.

“When you hire a licensed air conditioning or electrical contractor, you can be confident that each licensed contractor has met industry training standards and passed a state background check. You can also rely on their liability insurance. If you hire an unlicensed person to work on your home or business, you put your personal safety and your property at risk. Your home or business is often your biggest investment – and the lives of your family, friends, and customers are priceless. Hire a licensed professional for every job, every time” said Francis.

In addition, TDLR’s regulatory program management division performed a three-day electrical license sweep in Austin, Conroe and Houston. The RPM investigators visited numerous job sites and checked more than 220 individuals and found 11 had expired licenses. 

TDLR provides oversight for a broad range of occupations, businesses, facilities, and equipment. The agency protects the health and safety of Texans by ensuring they are served by qualified, licensed professionals. Inspections of individuals, businesses, and equipment are done on a regular basis to safeguard the public. Currently, the agency manages 39 business and occupational licensing programs which equates to more than 800,000 licenses across the state. The agency also regulates continuing education providers and courses. 

Visit TDLR’s website for more information and resources. Or, email or call TDLR’s Customer Service line anytime between 7 a.m. until 6 p.m., Monday - Friday. TDLR representatives are fluent in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Korean and Chinese.