MHIC - Maryland Home Improvement Contractor Safety and Regulations Questions and Answers

Question 1

A contractor is performing a renovation on a home built in 1965. The work involves disturbing more than 20 square feet of exterior painted surfaces. According to the EPA's Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule, which of the following is a required action before work begins?

Accepted Answer

Provide the homeowner with the EPA's "Renovate Right" lead hazard information pamphlet.

Answer

The EPA's RRP Rule requires that for homes built before 1978, contractors must provide the owner with the "Renovate Right" lead hazard information pamphlet before starting any renovation that disturbs certain amounts of painted surfaces.

Question 2

A licensed contractor's work vehicle is used for transporting materials and tools to various job sites. According to MHIC regulations, what must be displayed on both sides of this vehicle?

Accepted Answer

The contractor's MHIC license number, preceded by "MHIC #".

Answer

MHIC regulations mandate that licensed contractors must conspicuously display their home improvement license number, preceded by the letters "MHIC #", on both sides of all work vehicles. The lettering must be at least 3 inches high.

Question 3

During a kitchen remodel, a homeowner requests a significant change to the cabinet layout that was not in the original signed contract. This change will add $2,500 to the total cost. What is the proper procedure for the contractor to follow?

Accepted Answer

Execute a written change order signed by both the homeowner and the contractor before performing the new work.

Answer

While the MHIC recommends all change orders be in writing, it is the best practice to avoid disputes. A written change order, agreed to and signed by both the contractor and the homeowner, creates a clear record of the new scope of work and cost, protecting both parties. The Door-to-Door Sales Act does not apply to transactions that are the result of a written change order.

Question 4

An MHIC licensed contractor fails to respond in writing to a formal complaint filed by a homeowner with the Commission. What is a potential disciplinary action the MHIC can take against the contractor for this failure to respond?

Accepted Answer

Suspension of the contractor's license and a fine of up to $5,000.

Answer

If a contractor fails to respond to a Notice of Complaint, the MHIC can schedule a show cause hearing. If the contractor is found to have violated the law by not responding, the Commission's Hearing Board can take disciplinary action, which may include suspending the license and imposing a fine of up to $5,000.

Question 5

Which of the following is a non-delegable duty of the prime contractor under Maryland Home Improvement Law?

Accepted Answer

Securing all necessary permits and licenses for the project.

Answer

According to the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR), it is the non-delegable duty and obligation of the prime contractor to secure, or see to the securing of, every permit, license, or special exception necessary for the proper completion of the contract.

(MHIC) Maryland Home Improvement Contractor Practice Test

(MHIC) Maryland Home Improvement Contractor Practice Test

MHIC - Maryland Home Improvement Contractor Safety and Regulations Questions and Answers