Becoming a licensed contractor in Maryland is an important step toward building a professional, reliable, and successful business. The process involves preparation, testing, and the process of application. When completed properly, it can lead to bigger projects and stronger client relationships.
Getting licensed in Maryland isn’t just about legal compliance; it’s about building long-term growth and credibility.
This month, there’s exciting news for contractors preparing for their Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) license.
This Month’s Update: More PSI Exam Slots in Baltimore & Silver Spring. Previously, contractors often faced long waits of weeks or even months to schedule their MHIC exam due to limited availability. PSI has now added more exam slots in Baltimore and Silver Spring, making this an ideal time to advance your career.
What does this mean for you?
This expansion ensures contractors have a smoother path to scheduling and completing their licensing exams, a crucial milestone in their careers. Delays in exam availability have been a challenge, but PSI’s new exam slots in Maryland provide faster access to testing, better alignment with preparation timelines, and a clearer path to compliance and professional growth.
Important MHIC Updates to Note:
- The Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) has recently released updated editions of the books used for their licensing exams. These new editions reflect any changes in laws, regulations, and codes, ensuring that contractors are fully prepared for the exam.
- Similarly, the Virginia Board for Contractors has also announced updated editions of their exam preparation books.
It is important for contractors to stay updated with these changes in order to pass their exams and stay compliant with state regulations.
Effective August 1st, 2024
Fee Increase: The two-year assessment for renewing MHIC contractors to the Guaranty Fund also increased from $150 to $175.
Effective June 1st 2024
- General Liability Insurance: All Maryland home improvement contractors must now maintain general liability insurance of at least $500,000.
- Solar Panel Installations: Contractors installing rooftop solar panels must now include a wildlife barrier that meets industry standards, unless the customer signs a waiver.
Plan ahead by booking early and preparing effectively to make the most of this new opportunity. With the right guidance, your licensing process can be smoother, faster, and more effective.
References:
- Maryland Department of Labor. (n.d.). Notice to all Maryland home improvement contractors that install rooftop solar panels: Effective June 1, 2024, section 8-315 now requires general liability insurance in the amount of at least $500,000.
- Maryland Department of Labor. (n.d.). Notice to all home improvement contractors of new general liability insurance requirements.
- Maryland Department of Labor. (n.d.). New MHIC application and licensing fees.
- Maryland Home Improvement Commission. (n.d.). Licensing Workshop – Home Improvement Commission. Maryland Department of Labor.
- Maryland Home Improvement Commission. (n.d.). Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC). Maryland Department of Labor.
- Maryland Home Improvement Commission. (n.d.). License Categories and Requirements – Home Improvement Commission.
- Maryland Home Improvement Commission. (n.d.). Licensing –
- Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC). Maryland Department of Labor.
- PSI Exams. (n.d.). Construction – PSI Exams.
