MONTGOMERY– Alabama consumers should verify professional engineering licenses before hiring someone through a freelance website, state officials warned Wednesday, Oct. 28.
Attorney General Steve Marshall and the Alabama Board for Engineers and Land Surveyors issued the warning about services advertised on platforms including Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.
The officials said those websites allow people to advertise services but may not verify whether they hold the required licenses.
In some cases, individuals have falsely claimed professional credentials or impersonated licensed engineers by using their seals and signatures. They then supplied substandard or unsafe work, according to the warning.
The misuse of a professional seal also makes it difficult to determine who actually performed the work.
Unlicensed Work Can Create Safety and Financial Risks
Officials warned that poorly prepared plans or inaccurate surveys can lead to expensive construction mistakes and unsafe conditions. They can also create permitting problems and potential civil liability.
“Before you pay anyone to design, survey, or draw plans for your home, verify their license,” Marshall said.
Board Executive Director Rick Huett also cautioned that an online advertisement does not establish that someone holds the proper license.
Engineers can hold licenses in multiple states. However, consumers should confirm that the professional holds an Alabama license before hiring them for work in the state.
How to Verify an Engineer Before Paying
First, use the board’s License Search to check the person’s Alabama credentials.
Also, contact the engineer directly at their established place of business to confirm their identity. The board recommends this step to help consumers avoid dealing with someone impersonating a licensed professional.
If questions remain, contact the board at 334-242-5568 or toll-free at 866-461-7640. Then ask to speak with a member of its investigative staff.
Consumers should also report suspected misuse of professional seals to those investigators. The same reporting option applies if someone believes an advertiser or service provider misled them about licensed engineering or surveying services.
The warning encourages consumers to verify both the professional’s qualifications and the identity of the person offering the work.
