How to Lookup MHIC Licensed Contractors
Hiring a licensed contractor is a crucial step in any construction or home improvement project. It ensures that the work is done safely and up to code. In Maryland, the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) is responsible for regulating contractors and ensuring they meet certain standards. If you are a homeowner or business owner in Maryland, it is important to know how to lookup MHIC licensed contractors and verify their credentials.
What is the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC)?
The Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) was established in 1978 to protect consumers and regulate the home improvement industry in Maryland. The commission is responsible for ensuring that contractors meet certain standards and comply with state laws and regulations.
The MHIC works with the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (DLLR), which oversees licensing and regulation of various industries in Maryland, including the home improvement industry. The commission issues licenses to contractors who meet specific requirements, such as passing a criminal background check, providing proof of insurance and bonding, and passing an exam on home improvement laws and regulations.
The mission of the MHIC is to protect consumers from unscrupulous contractors and promote ethical business practices in the home improvement industry. The commission provides resources and information to help consumers make informed decisions when hiring contractors, and investigates complaints and disciplinary actions against contractors who violate state laws and regulations.
Step 1: Visit the MHIC Website
The first step is to visit the MHIC website. It is the best place to start your search for licensed contractors in Maryland. The website has a “License Search” button that will take you to a page where you can search for contractors by their name, license number, or location. You can find this selection on the left-hand side of the website.
Step 2: Choose a Search Method
Once you are on the search page, you can choose between three search methods:
- by name
- by license number
- by location
If you know the name of the contractor you are looking for, select the “Search by Name” option and enter their first and last name. You also have the ability to search by trade name and salesperson name if they are an agent, and not the contractor themselves.
If you have their license number, select “Search by License Number” and enter the number. If you are looking for contractors in a specific area, select “Search by Location” and enter the city or county.
Step 3: Verify DLLR Credentials
Before hiring a licensed contractor, it is important to verify their credentials. You can do this by checking their license status on the MHIC website. Look for the “License Status” column in the search results. If the status is “Active,” it means the contractor is currently licensed and in good standing with the MHIC. If the status is “Inactive,” it means the contractor’s license has expired or been revoked.
Step 5: Check for Disciplinary Actions
In addition to checking a contractor’s license status, you should also review any disciplinary actions that have been taken against them. Look for the “Disciplinary Action” column in the search results. If there are no disciplinary actions listed, it means the contractor has not had any complaints filed against them. If there are disciplinary actions listed, review the details to determine the severity of the violations.
Step 6: Additional Resources
If you are still unsure about a contractor’s credentials, there are additional resources you can use to verify their qualifications. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is a good place to start. You can search for the contractor on the BBB website and see any complaints or reviews they have received. You can also check with the Maryland Home Builders Association (MHBA) or the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) for additional information.
Always Verify They Have Maryland Contractor License
It is important to note that not all contractors are required to have an MHIC license. For example, electricians and plumbers have their own licensing requirements in Maryland. However, if you are planning a home improvement project that involves multiple trades, hiring an MHIC licensed contractor provides more assurance that you’re getting quality service from a trusted provider.
In addition to hiring a licensed contractor, there are other steps you can take to ensure your construction or home improvement project goes smoothly. For example, you should obtain any necessary permits from your local government before starting the project. You should also make sure the contractor has adequate insurance coverage in case of accidents or damage to your property.
Hiring a licensed contractor is an important step in any construction or home improvement project. By following the steps outlined above, you can look up MHIC licensed contractors and verify their credentials. Remember to always check a contractor’s license status and review any disciplinary actions before hiring them. With these tools and resources, you can make informed decisions and ensure your project is completed to your satisfaction.