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 Maryland, home improvement projects are regulated to protect homeowners and ensure that contractors conduct business in a fair and legal manner. Financing such projects often involves a home equity line of credit (HELOC), which is a loan where the borrower uses the equity of their home as collateral. The construction contract is a critical document that outlines the scope of work, materials, labor, costs, and timelines. Maryland law requires that home improvement contracts be in writing and include specific information to be valid. Before starting any project, it's important to verify property lines to avoid disputes. Mechanic’s liens are a legal tool that contractors and subcontractors can use to secure payment for work performed, and homeowners should be aware of the potential for such liens to be placed on their property. Waivers or releases of mechanic’s liens can be obtained once payment is made. Homeowners should also ensure that there is adequate insurance coverage, such as builder’s risk insurance, to protect against damage or loss during the project. Additionally, worker’s compensation insurance is mandatory for contractors to cover personal injuries that workers may sustain on the job. Maryland's Home Improvement Law requires contractors to be licensed by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) and provides specific regulations and protections for homeowners engaging in home improvement projects.