Consumer Advice - Home Improvement Commission Call 410-230-6231 or 1-888-218-5925. Ask if complaints have been filed against a contractor and whether they have been resolved or are still open. Obtain complaint forms by phone or at our website. Obtain Guaranty Fund claim forms.
In Maryland, it is illegal to act as a home improvement contractor, subcontractor or salesperson without a valid license. Licenses are issued by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC). To verify a license, call MHIC at 410.230. 6309 or check online at Public Search .
A home improvement contract must contain the contractor's name, address, telephone number, and MHIC license number. If a salesperson solicited or sold the home improvement, then the contract must also contain the name and license number of each salesperson.
Obtaining the License Attend licensing workshop (optional). Pass examination administered by PSI Examination prior to applying for license. Register trade name with Assessments and Taxation (410) 767-1330. Demonstrate financial solvency. Provide credit report. Provide certificate of liability insurance.
Home improvement contractors must be licensed with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC). However, it is common for people to take shortcuts or completely avoid this law. The penalties for doing so can be severe, especially if you want to stay in the contracting business in Maryland.
The terms of the contract must be agreed upon mutually. An offer is made, understood by both parties, and accepted. Both parties must agree to the same thing. This is sometimes referred to as “a meeting of the minds.”