Tags: Roofing, Commercial
Prince George’s County, Maryland roofers (http://www.roofing-directory.com/maryland/) must go through a state-licensing process that is designed to protect the general public. The Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) licenses all contractors and subcontractors in the state. Licensed roofing contractors are required by the state to display their MHIC number on advertisements and contracts, and homeowners benefit when they trust their job to a licensed professional.
To ensure quality workmanship in Prince George’s County, the MHIC has a guaranty fund that is administered by the commission. The fund applies only to projects that are handled by licensed contractors and is designed to allow homeowners to recover damages up to $20,000. The state’s home improvement licensing process is one of the most comprehensive in the nation, and Prince George’s Country homeowners can trust a professional roofing contractor that has an MHIC number. Before a roofer is licensed in the state, they need to pass a contractor’s exam, show financial solvency, demonstrate their experience in the industry and have another contractor co-sign their application.
The MHIC Test
The application for an MHIC roofing contractor’s license consists of a number of steps. Each contractor needs to fill out a thorough application and is required to pass the state’s official examination. The contractor test covers Maryland home improvement law, and takers must demonstrate their knowledge of local issues. For example, contractors need to answer questions that relate to the amount of money that is payable during the course of a job’s completion. Maryland law only allows roofers to take 30 percent of the contract’s amount at signing. Contractors are then allowed another draw when the job is started, and the last payment is made upon completion. In addition, contractors need to demonstrate knowledge about local safety issues, overtime and wages.
Showing Financial Solvency
Because the MHIC provides protection to homeowners in the event of damages that are caused by a state-licensed contractor, the issue of financial solvency is considered by the commission. If a homeowner has trouble with their new roof, the MHIC actually provides financial remedies. The MHIC wants to ensure homeowners that their contractors have the capital to ensure a quality job and can pay for any damages that may arise during the course of a project. Many times, the MHIC asks contractors for information about their finances. In addition, some contractors are required to provide a letter of credit from their local banker. Liability insurance is another essential component of financial solvency and is required by the MHIC. The state requires contractors to show proof of liability insurance in the amount of $50,000.
Experience
Experience is another crucial factor that is considered by the MHIC before it grants a license. The state has minimum requirements to assure Prince George’s County, Maryland homeowners that their jobs are handled by experienced professionals. Contractors need to show that they have at least two years of experience in the industry. In addition, applicants for the MHIC license need to have their application signed by a contractor who currently holds a home improvement license.
Installing a new roof in Prince George’s County, Maryland is an expensive job, and the state designed the MHIC to ensure homeowners of quality workmanship and financial protection. Roofing contractors are required by the state to have a valid MHIC number to perform home improvements. The licensing process entails several steps, and contractors need to take a comprehensive examination, demonstrate financial solvency, have liability insurance for at least $50,000 and have at least two years of experience in the industry. Contractors are also required to display their MHIC number on advertisements and contracts. The licensing process protects homeowners, and the MHIC actually covers damages up to $20,000 that are caused by licensed roofers.
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