Maryland Home Improvement PSI Practice Exam

Filing a complaint with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) is the proper way for a consumer to address issues with a licensed contractor. The MHIC is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing home improvement contractors in Maryland, ensuring they follow state laws and regulations. Complaints filed with the MHIC are formally investigated, and the commission has the authority to take action against contractors, which can include disciplinary measures such as fines, revoking licenses, or recommending criminal charges for severe violations.

In contrast, while contacting the Better Business Bureau might help bring attention to issues, it does not have the regulatory power to enforce compliance or resolve disputes in the same way as the MHIC. Similarly, while a county office may handle certain issues related to permits or zoning, they typically do not handle complaints against contractors in the context of licensing violations. Sending an email directly to the contractor is not a formal complaint process and is unlikely to yield the same results as a formal complaint with the MHIC, which has established processes for dealing with disputes and enforcing contractor accountability.