Customer Tips 101: How to Protect Yourself When Hiring a Contractor in Maryland
When it comes to flooring or any home improvement project, choosing the right contractor is just as important as selecting the right materials. At Brothers Flooring Services, we believe informed customers are protected customers. Whether you’re installing hardwood floors, vinyl planks, or refinishing old surfaces, it’s crucial to ask the right questions before hiring anyone. Why? Because if your contractor isn’t licensed or insured—and something goes wrong—you, the homeowner, could be held liable.
1. Always Ask: Are You Licensed and Insured?
Before a single board is laid or a tool is picked up, the first question every homeowner should ask is: “Are you licensed and insured?” If the answer isn’t an immediate “Yes,” consider that a red flag.
In Maryland, home improvement contractors must be licensed by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC). This license ensures the contractor meets state standards for competence, ethics, and professionalism.
Why this matters:
If an unlicensed contractor injures themselves—say, cuts off a finger while using a saw on your property—and they don’t carry
workers’ compensation insurance,
you may be responsible for medical costs, lawsuits, and damages. And yes, that includes contractors you “thought” were legit.
2. How to Verify a Contractor’s MHIC License in Maryland
Protecting yourself starts with a few simple steps:
- Step 1: Visit the Maryland Department of Labor MHIC License Lookup.
- Step 2: Enter the contractor’s name or license number.
- Step 3: Review their status—look for Active licenses and any disciplinary actions.
Only hire contractors with a valid and current license. It’s your legal safety net.
3. Don't Be Fooled by Cheap Estimates
We get it—home improvement projects are expensive. It’s tempting to go with the lowest bid. But here’s the truth: The cheapest contractor isn’t always the best.
Cheaper bids often come with hidden costs:
- Unlicensed or uninsured workers
- Subpar materials
- Cut corners on craftsmanship
- No warranty or follow-up support
When you hire based on price alone, you risk paying twice—once for the cheap job, and again to fix it.
4. Questions to Ask Before Hiring Any Contractor
To protect your home, your investment, and your peace of mind, ask these questions:
- Are you licensed by the MHIC?
- Can I see a copy of your insurance and workers’ comp policy?
- Do you offer a written contract and warranty?
- Do you have references from recent projects?
- Who will actually be working on-site—your employees or subcontractors?
If they hesitate on any of these, move on.
5. The Benefits of Hiring a Licensed and Insured Contractor
When you work with a company like Brothers Flooring Services, you’re choosing peace of mind. We are fully licensed by the MHIC, carry general liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and maintain high standards of training and safety.
Benefits include:
- Legal Protection: Licensed contractors must follow Maryland law and codes.
- Financial Protection: Insurance covers damages or injuries that could otherwise cost you.
- Quality Assurance: Licensed pros know their craft, use proper materials, and stand by their work.
- Peace of Mind: You avoid legal disputes, injury liability, and unfinished jobs.
6. Certifications Matter, Too
Besides MHIC licensing, many top flooring professionals (like us) also maintain certifications with industry organizations like the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) or Floor Covering Installation Contractors Association (FCICA). These credentials show commitment to training, ethics, and staying current with trends and best practices.
Final Thoughts
At Brothers Flooring Services, we’ve seen it all—DIY disasters, half-finished installs, and homeowners left scrambling after hiring uninsured contractors who disappear after payment. Don’t let that be your story.
Hiring the right contractor is not just about getting the job done. It’s about protecting your home, your finances, and your family. Ask the right questions, verify licenses, and don’t cut corners just to save a buck.
Need help with your next flooring project? Reach out to
Brothers Flooring Services—your licensed, insured, and trustworthy partner in quality craftsmanship.
