Licensing · 7 min read · 2026-04-08
MHIC license: why it matters when hiring a Maryland contractor
Maryland is one of the strictest states in the country on home improvement licensing. Any contractor performing residential improvement work over $500 must hold an active Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) license. Eagle Home Improvements carries license MHIC #117311 — and here's why that number matters.
What MHIC actually requires
MHIC licensing requires the contractor to demonstrate competence (passed exam), financial responsibility (minimum $50,000 net worth or surety bond), insurance, and a clean disciplinary record.
License renewal is every two years. Active status can be verified at the Maryland OneStop license lookup — type a contractor's name or license number and the database returns current status, complaint history, and disciplinary actions.
Why unlicensed work costs you
No legal recourse for defects. Maryland's Home Improvement Guaranty Fund — which compensates homeowners for contractor fraud or workmanship failure up to $20,000 — only protects you if you hired a licensed contractor.
Resale problems. Unpermitted work performed by unlicensed contractors must usually be disclosed in real estate transactions. Buyers, lenders, and inspectors flag it.
Insurance void risk. Many homeowner policies exclude damage from unlicensed work. A bathroom leak from a non-MHIC plumber can result in denied claim.
Permit problems. Counties cross-check MHIC status before issuing permits. Unlicensed contractors often skip permits — putting you on the hook for unpermitted construction.
How to verify a Maryland contractor in 60 seconds
1. Go to Maryland OneStop License Lookup (onestop.md.gov).
2. Search "Home Improvement" by name or license number.
3. Confirm: Active status, no recent disciplinary actions, complaint history clean.
4. Cross-reference the license number on the contractor's contract, marketing, and signage. Mismatches are a red flag.
Beyond the license — what to verify additionally
Insurance: Ask for a current Certificate of Insurance (COI) showing general liability and workers' compensation. Both are required for licensure but worth confirming on a per-project basis.
References: Ask for three recent (last 6 months) projects in your county. Drive by, look at the work, talk to the homeowner. Real contractors expect this.
BBB record: Better Business Bureau lists complaints and resolutions. A pattern of unresolved complaints is a deal-breaker.
Free In-Home Consultation
Ready to plan your Maryland remodel?
Free in-home estimate. MHIC #117311 · $2M general liability.