Smart homeowners know their rights—and we want you to be one of them!

 Why MHIC matters

The Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) is the state licensing program that regulates contractors working on residential projects. When you choose an MHIC contractor, like FBD, you're choosing someone who not only meets these standards but is committed to your protection as a homeowner.

  • This is one of those things most people don't know to ask about, but it makes a huge difference for your project. A salesperson license allows someone to sell you a fence on behalf of a contractor. A person may only be licensed to represent up to two (2) licensed contractors in the selling of home improvements. A contractor license means the person can perform or agree to perform home improvements for homeowners and provides access to Maryland's Home Improvement Guaranty Fund for additional consumer protection.

    Emily holds a contractor/salesperson license, which means when I tell you I'll be overseeing your project from start to finish, I'm legally qualified to do exactly that. Some fence companies may not clearly communicate their licensing structure or who holds the actual contractor license for your project.

    Pro Tip: Here's what I'd ask any contractor you're considering: "Do you personally hold the contractor license? Will you be the one actually overseeing my installation?" You should feel empowered to ask about their background and category of license. The answer tells you everything about their level of involvement and accountability for your project.

    • Must provide proof of at least two years of experience in home improvement work, construction, and/or related education

    • Must demonstrate financial solvency based on their business scope and size, including total assets, liabilities, credit report, and net worth (applicants not meeting guidelines may purchase a surety bond or obtain an indemnitor)

    • Must submit articles of incorporation and Certificate of Good Standing from the Department of Assessments and Taxation if representing a corporation

    • Must register trade names with the Department of Assessments and Taxation after checking availability with the Commission

    • Must submit certificate of trade name registration with license application (if applicable)

    • Must provide proof of current $50,000 liability insurance

  • Maryland maintains a special fund to protect homeowners when licensed contractors fail to complete work or do defective work. If you can't get satisfaction from your MHIC contractor, you can file a claim for up to $20,000 to cover completion costs or repairs. This protection is only available when you hire licensed contractors–unlicensed contractors offer no such safety net.

    To learn more about the MHIC Guaranty Fund, click here.

  • Be empowered! Do your research and check a contractor's license at the Maryland Department of Labor website. Simply search by a contractor’s name or business name.

What is the Door-to-Door Sales Act?

If a contractor comes to your door or you sign a contract somewhere other than their primary business location, Maryland law gives you special protections.

  • You have 5 business days to cancel any door-to-door contract (7 days if you're 65 or older). No penalties, and you get your deposit back within 10 business days.

    • A written contract in the same language used during the sales presentation

    • A "Notice of Cancellation" form attached to your contract

    • Clear instructions on how and when to cancel

    • The contractor came to your door

    • You signed at your home or another location (not their business)

    • You responded to their solicitation

    • High-pressure tactics ("This price is only good today!")

    • Asking what other contractors quoted and immediately offering to beat the price

    • Demanding immediate signatures

    • Refusing to provide written estimates

    • Asking for payment upfront

Bottom line: Reputable contractors don't need to pressure you. Take your time, get multiple quotes (FBD recommends at least three!), and never feel rushed into signing anything.

Red Flags: Warning Signs of Unethical Contractors

While we like to assume good intentions, not everyone has your best interest at heart when it comes to your home projects. Here are a few guidelines and warning signs to follow as you make your decision.

    • Reluctance to show proof of insurance or licensure if they claim to be licensed

    • High-pressure sales tactics

    • Requesting full payment before starting work

    • Non-responsive after initial contact

    • Avoiding written estimates or contracts

    • "This price is only good today!"

    • Asking what other contractors quoted and immediately offering to beat the price

    • Demanding immediate signatures

    • Overstepping any boundaries you set about contact and/or follow-up

  • If something feels off, take your time. Good contractors understand that home improvements are big decisions and will give you the space to make the right choice for your family.