Can I Sue a Contractor in Maryland?

 Posted on August 10, 2025 in Construction Law

Hiring a contractor should make home renovations or construction projects easier, not more stressful. But what happens when the work is incomplete, defective, or not done at all? In Maryland, homeowners and property owners have legal options when a contractor fails to meet expectations. If you are dealing with shoddy work, missed deadlines, or a contractor who took your money and disappeared, you may be able to sue. Speaking with a Montgomery Village, MD construction law attorney can help you understand your rights and the next steps.

When Can You Sue a Contractor in Maryland?

In Maryland, you can sue a contractor if they break the terms of your agreement or violate state laws. Common reasons for suing include:

• Poor-quality or unfinished work

• Missed deadlines or delays without cause

• Use of unlicensed subcontractors

• Overcharging or doing unauthorized work

• Failure to follow local building codes

Contractor fraud and misrepresentation are also valid reasons to sue. If a contractor lies about their license, materials, or experience, legal action may be possible. Md. Code, Bus. Reg. § 8-101 requires contractors to be properly licensed and meet professional standards. If they violate these rules, they may face legal consequences. Additionally, if the contractor ignores safety rules or fails to get the correct permits, you may have a valid claim. These mistakes can cause dangerous situations or damage to your home.

Do You Need a Written Contract To Sue a Contractor in Maryland?

While having a written contract is the best way to protect yourself, it is not always required to sue a contractor. You may still be able to take legal action based on a verbal agreement, but these cases can be harder to prove without clear documentation.

A written contract provides strong evidence of what both sides agreed to, such as pricing, deadlines, and the type of work promised. Without it, you will likely need to rely on other forms of proof, including emails, text messages, payment records, or witness statements to support your claim in court.

Do You Need an Attorney To Sue a Contractor in Maryland?

You can file a lawsuit on your own in small claims court if the amount is under $5,000. But for more complex cases or larger amounts, hiring an attorney is usually the better option. A construction lawyer understands how to build a strong case, avoid common legal mistakes, and represent you effectively in court. They can help you determine exactly what laws the contractor may have violated and whether the issue involves fraud, negligence, or breach of contract. They can also gather the right evidence and calculate the full extent of your damages, including repair costs or financial losses from delays. In some cases, you may be able to recover additional compensation if the contractor caused physical damage to your home or property due to poor workmanship or unsafe practices.

Contact a Rockville, MD Construction Law Attorney Today

If you are considering legal action against a contractor, do not try to handle the process alone. Our knowledgeable Montgomery Village, MD construction law lawyers will review your case, explain your rights, and help you recover your losses.

At Salvado Law Offices, we are fully prepared and committed to taking on your case with diligence and attentiveness. Attorney Carlos Salvado is a frequent guest on Agendo Radio, where he advocates for the Hispanic community and provides commentary on legal issues affecting Latin Americans and immigrants. We proudly serve clients in both English and Spanish. Contact us today at 301-933-1814 to schedule a consultation. Se habla Español.