Free MHIC Training

8 practice questions

Who Needs an MHIC License

Maryland defines home improvement broadly. These scenarios work through where the line falls: residential versus commercial work, owners working on their own property, handyman jobs, and contractors coming in from out of state.

Start with question 10 of 8 answered
  1. 01What counts as home improvement under Maryland law?Work on residential property, as defined in Maryland Business Regulation §8-101. Repairs, replacements, remodeling, painting, fencing, and water heater replacement all count; commercial buildings fall outside MHIC licensing.
  2. 02Does a handyman need an MHIC license in Maryland?Yes. Maryland has no dollar-threshold handyman exemption, so anyone paid to improve, repair, or modify a residence needs an MHIC license, whatever the size of the job.
  3. 03Can a landlord renovate their own rentals without an MHIC license?Generally yes, for work they do themselves on property they own. They still need permits and code compliance, trade licenses for electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work, and anyone they hire needs an MHIC license.
  4. 04Does an MHIC license cover commercial renovation work?No. MHIC licensing applies to residential property only. Commercial work may need a general contractor license or trade licenses instead, and taking it under your MHIC license misrepresents your credentials.
  5. 05Does an MHIC license cover building an in-ground pool?Only partly; it depends on your jurisdiction. The deck, fencing, and hardscaping are MHIC work, but the pool shell, plumbing, and filtration may need specialized licensing, and pool electrical work requires a licensed electrician.
  1. 06Is installing a TV antenna home improvement in Maryland?Yes. COMAR 09.08.01.21 specifically treats television antenna installation as home improvement work, so anyone hired to install one, with rooftop mounting and cable routing, needs an MHIC license.
  2. 07How do you explain the risk of an unlicensed contractor to a homeowner?Explain what licensing gives them: an unlicensed contractor means no Guaranty Fund protection, no required insurance, no recourse, and possible liability for injuries on their property. Invite them to verify any license with the MHIC.
  3. 08Do out-of-state storm chasers need a Maryland MHIC license?Yes. Out-of-state contractors are not exempt, so a contractor from another state needs an MHIC license to work in Maryland. Homeowners should verify the license, look for a local address, and insist on a complete written contract.