FAQs

Maryland licensed contractors must carry two types of insurance: liability and worker’s compensation. As a homeowner, these protect you in two ways. First, liability insurance will protect you in the event the contractor causes damage to your home. Workers’ comp covers the people working on the job, in case of injury. Some contractors are bonded. Many successful contractors do not need to be bonded.

Licensing offers proof that the contractor has met certain industry training standards and is allowed to do the work in your area. Hiring an unlicensed contractor could cost you a lot. If the work does not meet local building codes, or the contractor doesn’t pull the necessary permits (which an unlicensed contractor cannot do), you will be responsible for making the repairs to meet code. Allowing work to be done by an unlicensed contractor could also void your homeowner’s insurance policy, should a claim arise as a result of that work.

Licensed, insured contractors usually charge more than those who haven’t earned the credentials or paid for the insurance protection. Uninsured? Unlicensed? Where else will they cut corners? If something goes wrong, don’t let it be you who will be paying the price.

Generally, Improvement Zone will prepare a proposal for your project at no charge. Each project starts with a phone call to Improvement Zone. An Improvement Zone representative will come out to your home to listen and discuss your project. Measurements, notes and information will be collected. You will receive an estimate and scope of work from Improvement Zone by email (or regular mail, if you prefer). Large jobs, which will require drawings or engineering, for example, will incur a charge as these take much more time to prepare.

Yes, we will take care of any necessary permits with any county in Maryland.

Yes, We have experience in historic Annapolis, and Baltimore, and the Eastern Shore.. We are familiar with the regulations, committees, review boards, and special permits necessary to get the job done.

Yes, we can convert existing homes to meet ADA and Universal Design Guidelines. Improvement Zone is registered with the State of Maryland as a Medicaid Provider. We are NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) certified in Universal Design, a designation that focuses on designing living spaces for all ages and abilities.

We are a certified EPA Lead Paint Contractor and hold Maryland State Supervisor Lead Paint Removal and Demolition and Residential and Commercial Lead Paint Services Building Contractor. Renovations, repair jobs and paint jobs in pre-1978 homes and buildings can create significant amounts of lead-based paint dust. If your contractor will disturb lead-based paint while renovating, repairing or painting your home, they must be trained in lead-safe work practices.