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TDLR joins other states in coordinated enforcement effort against unlicensed contractors

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November 3, 2025

AUSTIN – During a recent one-week undercover sting in the Corpus Christi area, investigators from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) found a total of 57 violations, mostly by unlicensed electricians and air conditioning and refrigeration contractors who offered to perform unlicensed work.

The sting was part of a national enforcement effort that was coordinated by the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA).

During the sting, TDLR investigators contacted people who advertised electrical and air conditioning services in local newspapers or on social media and did not include license information in the ads as they’re required to do by state law. Those contacted reported to a location to offer bids to perform work.

TDLR urges Texas consumers who hire electricians and air conditioning and refrigeration contractors to always check to make sure their service providers are licensed by TDLR.

“It’s so important to make sure that electrical contractors and air conditioning contractors are licensed by TDLR because they have completed training and passed examinations that cover regulations and building codes designed to protect health and safety. They’ve also had criminal background checks and have liability insurance,” said Courtney Arbour, TDLR Executive Director. “Your family’s safety is important.”

When hiring a contractor, NASCLA recommends that consumers:

  • Verify the contractor is actively licensed; always hire a licensed contractor
  • Check TDLR licenses here: https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/LicenseSearch/
  • Get 2-3 estimates – don’t automatically accept the lowest bid
  • Check at least 3 references
  • Require a written contract
  • Don’t make a large down payment; make payments as work is completed
  • Monitor the job in progress
  • Don’t make the final payment until the job is complete
  • Keep all paperwork related to your job

See the NASCLA website for more consumer awareness tips.

About TDLR

TDLR provides regulatory oversight for a broad range of occupations, businesses, facilities, and equipment in Texas, including the Texas Lottery and Charitable Bingo programs. 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 regulates 41 business and occupational licensing programs with more than 1,000,000 licensees across the state.

Visit TDLR’s website for more information and resources. You can search the TDLR licensee database, and also find past violations in which a final order was issued against companies or individuals. TDLR’s Customer Service line is available anytime between 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 1-800-803-9202. TDLR representatives are fluent in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.

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