Knowing where your licensing applies is important. If you’re not sure, find someone who can help!
Many professions require a state license or registration to legally perform work in the area. Since Maryland is a pretty narrow state, it’s not uncommon for companies to consider taking on work in other states. In some cases, though, you may need a separate license or registration for that state, otherwise, you may be putting yourself in a vulnerable position and risking not getting paid for the work completed How can you protect yourself?
D.C.’s Home Improvement Contractor Licensing Law
In Washington, D.C., there is a law preventing a home improvement contractor from suing a client for non-payment even if the contractor does not possess a license. This means that a homeowner could lawfully refuse payment after the work is complete, even if the contractor has a license in a neighboring state such as Maryland or Virginia. One of our clients had this experience first-hand when he did home improvement work for a homeowner in Maryland. The homeowner then requested additional work at another property in Washington, D.C. Our client holds a license in Maryland as a contractor, but he does not hold a separate license in D.C. Ultimately the homeowner refused to pay our client for the work he completed. Our client did not have any recourse because he does not have a license in Washington, D.C.
Despite the close proximity between many states, there are still separate licenses and registration requirements in each state for many different businesses.
Get Help from Someone Who Knows
Contractors aren’t the only ones at risk. Retailers shipping goods to another state need to know and understand the restrictions there may be on their business crossing state lines. An attorney who regularly reviews and analyzes state licensing and registration will be able to help you understand what needs to be done in order to protect yourself while working in different states.
Contact The Law Offices of Kirk Halpin & Associates, P.A. Today
Practicing together in Howard County since 2004 – first in Columbia and now in Clarksville, The Law Offices of Kirk Halpin & Associates, P.A., is here to help with a variety of business, real estate and finance law issues. We have a long list of practice areas, a long list of industries served, and a long list of success stories and recommendations in helping businesses, no matter the size, grow, reach their goals, and surpass them. If you’re seeking counsel on a business, real estate or finance law issue, always feel free to contact us via our contact page or call us at (410) 531-1700. While you are here, remember to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and LinkedIn to stay up to date with our blog and the latest happenings at our firm.
