Hotline for Older Virginians
Hotline Phone Number: (804) 367-2178
Consumer Information for Older Virginians
The Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) oversees those jobs which pose a potential for public harm. Our mission is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of Virginians. DPOR licenses or certifies more than 240,000 individuals and businesses ranging from contractors to real estate agents and opticians to hearing aid specialists.
DPOR works aggressively to protect all consumers, but focuses its efforts especially on fraud and discrimination against older Virginians. Senior citizens are often potential targets for unscrupulous business practices, particularly in five areas under our agency's purview:
- Construction and home repair
- Fair housing
- Hearing aid specialists
- Cemeteries and pre-need burial contracts
- Opticians
How can you protect yourself against fraud?
The best way to prevent fraud is to shop smartly and be a careful consumer. DPOR licenses contractors, hearing aid specialists, opticians, and cemetery operators - we can tell you who has met the standards for licensure and whether a provider has a history of disciplinary actions. Housing discrimination based on elderliness is illegal, and DPOR can help you learn your rights and investigate abuses.
Learn more about protecting yourself with these DPOR Consumer Guides for Older Virginians:
Construction and Home Improvement Scams
What Seniors Should Know Before Hiring A Contractor (PDF Format)
Cemeteries and Pre-Need Burial Contracts
Buying Eyeglasses and Choosing an Optician
What if you think you may already have been a victim of fraud or discrimination?
Older Virginians are sometimes reluctant to report fraud victimization out of embarrassment, or even fear that they will lose their independence or control of financial decision-making.
Remember, con artists are professional criminals. Do not feel shame if you fall for a scam, but DO file a complaint! DPOR is here to investigate, discipline licensees who violate regulations, criminally charge unlicensed offenders, and even provide restitution for financial losses in certain cases.
For more information, call the DPOR Hotline for Older Virginians at (804) 367-2178
Copyright © 2000 Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation
This web page was last updated: 08/24/2007 11:03:40 AM