Maryland Handyman Cap & Advertising Rule
The Key Rule in Maryland:
Maryland strictly enforces the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) license requirement for virtually all residential repair and remodeling.
Maryland strictly enforces the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) license requirement for virtually all residential repair and remodeling.
Cheapest Legal Registration Path: Maryland MHIC Contractor License (Open-Book Law Exam)
Estimated Year-1 Cost: $250 App Fee + ~$150/yr Surety Bond ($20,000 MHIC Surety Bond or Guaranty Fund)
Note on Project Quotes: All 50-state handyman cap rules, permit calculators, and checklists are free nationwide. Direct contractor project estimates are available in Cowlitz & Clark County, WA only; out-of-area visitors can compare national pros via Angi, Thumbtack, or HomeAdvisor on our main hub.
Frequently Asked Questions (Maryland)
1. How much can an unlicensed handyman legally charge in Maryland?
In Maryland (Md. Business Regulation Code § 8-301), the unlicensed handyman threshold is: $0 Exemption (MHIC License Required for All Home Improvement). Maryland strictly enforces the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) license requirement for virtually all residential repair and remodeling.
2. What is the cheapest way to become a legal bonded handyman/contractor in Maryland?
The fastest path is Maryland MHIC Contractor License (Open-Book Law Exam), with an application fee of ~$250 and a surety bond cost of ~$150/year ($20,000 MHIC Surety Bond or Guaranty Fund).