MHIC Licensed Contractor in Maryland — What It Means and Why It Matters

What Is the MHIC License?

The Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) is the state agency responsible for licensing and regulating home improvement contractors throughout Maryland. Any contractor performing residential remodeling, renovation, repair, or construction work valued over $500 on a residential property in Maryland is legally required to hold an active MHIC license.

This includes all types of home improvement work: kitchen remodeling, bathroom renovation, basement finishing, home additions, roofing, siding, deck construction, and more.

Why the MHIC License Protects You as a Homeowner

Hiring an MHIC licensed contractor in Maryland gives you several critical protections that unlicensed contractors cannot offer:

• Guarantee Fund Protection: Maryland maintains a Guaranty Fund that can compensate homeowners up to $20,000 if a licensed contractor defaults, abandons a project, or causes damages. Unlicensed contractors offer zero fund protection.
• Legal Recourse: You can file a complaint with the MHIC against a licensed contractor. The commission investigates and can suspend or revoke licenses, creating real accountability.
• Verified Insurance: MHIC licensees must carry liability insurance and a surety bond. This protects your property and finances if an accident or damage occurs during the project.
• Written Contract Required: Maryland law requires all licensed contractors to provide written contracts that include project scope, cost, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty terms.
• Background Screening: MHIC licensees undergo background checks as part of the licensing process, adding another layer of trust and accountability.

How to Verify a Contractor's MHIC License

Before signing any home improvement contract in Maryland, always verify the contractor's MHIC license. Here's how:

1. Visit mhic.maryland.gov
2. Click "Licensee Search" in the navigation
3. Enter the contractor's name, business name, or license number
4. Verify the license is active, not expired, and has no open complaints or suspensions

You can also call the MHIC directly at 410-230-6231.

Build Dog Construction's license number is MHIC #174649. We encourage every homeowner to verify it before hiring us — that's the transparency you deserve.

Red Flags: Signs of an Unlicensed Contractor

• ×Refuses to provide their MHIC license number
• ×Offers a price dramatically lower than competitors
• ×Requests payment in cash only
• ×Cannot provide proof of insurance
• ×No written contract — only verbal agreements
• ×Uses unmarked vehicles with no business identification
• ×Pressures you to decide immediately

MHIC vs. General Contractor License: What's the Difference?

In Maryland, the MHIC license specifically covers home improvement work on existing residential structures. New construction projects (building a brand-new home from the ground up) may require a different class of license. For the vast majority of residential renovation, remodeling, and addition work, the MHIC license is the relevant and required credential.

Frequently Asked Questions