Consumer Advice - Maryland Home Improvement Commission

SERVICES TO CONSUMERS
• To make sure the contractor you choose is licensed. It is a criminal offense to do home improvements without a license and there is no protection from the Guaranty Fund for the homeowner who uses an unlicensed contractor.
• Find license status at our website
OR
• call 410-230-6309 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.
About Lead
TIPS FOR HOMEOWNERS
• Request references from prospective contractor-check them!
• If the contractor is providing lead paint abatement services, see if the contractor is accredited to do this work. Call 410-537-3825.
• Get a copy of the contractor’s current liability insurance certificate.
• Always get a written contract.
• Pay no more than 1/3 of the contract price as down payment.
• If a building permit is needed, ask to see it before work starts.

Return to the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing home page
Questions or comments regarding the Maryland Home Improvement Commission may be directed to mhic@dllr.state.md.us.
Questions or comments regarding the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing may be directed to op@dllr.state.md.us.
Questions or comments regarding the DLLR website may be directed to webmaster@dllr.state.md.us.

Updated December 8, 2009