Consumer Tips and Resources
Pinellas County offers tips and resources that allow consumers to make the best decisions.
Featured Government Office
Office of Consumer Protection
Anyone could fall victim to a scam. If you are unable to resolve a problem such as defective products, erroneous bills or non-delivery of goods or services, the dedicated employees of Pinellas County Consumer Protection can help. Consumer Protection is a division of the Human Services Department.
Learn MoreInfo & Resources
Consumer Stories
- Pinellas County Consumer Protection investigation leads to criminal charges
- Consumer Protection investigation leads to arrest, $203,941 in restitution for 30 victims
- Disgruntled Contractor Takes Advantage No More
- Drug Paraphernalia Dilemma
- Scam Artist No More
- Trade-In Tangle
- Solar Panel Solicitation
- Insurance Company Pays Back
- Final Agreement
Consumer Tips: Price Gouging
Price gouging is when a business sells necessary goods or services at higher than normal prices during a state of emergency. This......
Consumer Quick Tips
A retail store must conspicuously post the return policy near the point of sale or on the receipt. Never give an uninvited......
Consumer Protection Regulations
Licenses charitable, authorized organizations, and all lessors who are involved in the conduct of Bingo, High Prescribing Health Clinics, and Adult Use......
Tips for avoiding COVID-19 robocall scams
As many of us are practicing social distancing by staying home, we may be more likely to answer unsolicited phone calls. That’s......
Protect Your Senior Family and Friends from COVID-19 scams
During these times of social distancing and quarantine, older adults may be more isolated and therefore more vulnerable to scams. Perpetrators may......
Consumer Tips: Buying Your First Car
When you buy a car with an “AS IS” warranty, it means there is no warranty. Have the car checked out by......
Consumer Tips: Mortgage Terms You Should Know
CLOSING COSTS: Costs the buyer must pay at the time of closing in addition to the down payment. Closing costs average 3-4%......
Home Improvement Scams
Home Solicitation Be extremely cautious of anyone coming to your home uninvited and offering to do home repairs. This technique could be......
Towing Ordinance
The Office of Consumer Protection is tasked with the enforcement of towing companies. Click here for more information on your rights and......
Human Trafficking
Human Trafficking typically exploits individuals for commercial sex or forced labor while subjecting victims to force, fraud and coercion. In June 2015,......