Home improvement projects—also known as home repairs, renovations, or remodeling—range from small painting projects to complete reconstruction of rooms or of an entire home.

Home improvement projects can present a number of potential legal issues, including financing and loans (home equity line of credit or HELOC, for example); the construction contract for the work (materials and labor); surveys and lot lines; mechanic’s liens; waivers or releases of mechanic’s liens; insurance against damage or loss (builder’s risk) to the home or materials; and worker’s compensation insurance to insure against personal injuries sustained by a contractor or subcontractor.

In Alaska, home improvement projects are subject to various legal considerations. Financing such projects often involves securing a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or other loans, which are regulated by state and federal lending laws. The construction contract is a critical document that outlines the scope of work, materials, labor, payment schedule, and other terms; it should comply with Alaska's statutes governing contracts. Before starting a project, homeowners should ensure that property surveys respect lot lines to avoid disputes. Mechanic’s liens are a legal tool for contractors and subcontractors to secure payment for their work and can be filed against a property if payment is not received. Conversely, waivers or releases of mechanic’s liens may be obtained once payment is made. Insurance is another important aspect, with builder’s risk insurance covering damage or loss to the home or materials during the project, and worker’s compensation insurance being mandatory to cover personal injuries to contractors or subcontractors. It is advisable for homeowners to consult with an attorney to navigate these legal issues and ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.