Guide
Before you hire a restoration contractor in Maryland
This site connects you with an independent contractor. It does not vouch for one. Maryland gives you the tools to check before you sign.
Check the license
Ask for the MHIC number
The Maryland Home Improvement Commission licenses contractors and salespersons. The Commission's consumer page links a license lookup, and says you can also phone 410-230-6231 or 1-888-218-5925 to ask whether complaints have been filed against a contractor.
Know what unlicensed means
The Commission says doing home improvements without a license is a criminal offense, and that the Guaranty Fund gives no protection to a homeowner who used an unlicensed contractor.
Know the exceptions
The statute exempts people licensed under other State or local laws, such as plumbers, electricians and heating and air-conditioning contractors, when they work only within that trade. See Business Regulation 8-301.
Expect mold to follow the same rule
There is no separate mold license now. The Commission's FAQ says the mold subtitle was terminated on July 1, 2019.
What the contract must contain
| In writing, signed | Every home improvement contract must be legible, in writing, and signed by each party. |
|---|---|
| The contractor | Name, address, telephone number and license number. |
| The job | Approximate start and substantial completion dates, a description of the work and the materials, and the agreed price. |
| The notice | The Commission's telephone number and website, and a statement that every contractor must be licensed. |
Questions worth asking
- Which license do you hold for this work, and what is the number?
- Is anyone else doing part of the job, and do they hold a license?
- What does the written scope include, and what would change it?
- How will you show me the structure is dry?
- Do you need a building permit for any of this, and who pulls it?
- Can I see your current certificate of liability insurance?
The Commission also advises asking for references, checking them, and paying no more than one-third of the contract price as a down payment.
About ads and license numbers
Maryland law does not let a person advertise that they are licensed unless the ad shows the number as "MHIC No." or "Maryland Home Improvement Commission License No.". This website holds no contractor license and does not advertise that it does. Any contractor's own ads that claim a license should show its number, and you can check it.
Water still running or standing?
Call and say where the water is and what caused it. You will be connected with an independent restoration contractor taking calls for your ZIP code.