Scams & Consumer Issues in Maryland

By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026

Key Maryland Law

Maryland Code, Commercial Law Article Section 13-301 (Maryland Consumer Protection Act)

Maryland's Consumer Protection Act prohibits unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practices in the sale or offer for sale of consumer goods, consumer services, and real property.

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Procedural Details in Maryland

Maryland's Consumer Protection Act (CL Section 13-101 et seq.) provides a private right of action under CL Section 13-408. Consumers may recover actual damages plus attorney fees. For willful violations, courts may award up to three times actual damages. The statute of limitations is three years under Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. Section 5-101. The Maryland AG has broad enforcement authority and may seek injunctions, restitution, and civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation ($25,000 for violations against elderly consumers). Maryland has a strong Home Improvement Law (Business Regulation Article Section 8-101 et seq.) that requires contractors to be licensed by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) for residential work valued at $200 or more. Unlicensed contractor work is a criminal offense. The MHIC maintains a guaranty fund that may compensate consumers defrauded by licensed contractors.

Maryland Agencies & Resources

Maryland Attorney General — Consumer Protection Division

Enforces the Maryland Consumer Protection Act and accepts consumer fraud complaints.

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Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC)

Licenses home improvement contractors and operates a guaranty fund for defrauded consumers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Maryland have a guaranty fund for contractor fraud victims?

Yes. The Maryland Home Improvement Commission maintains a guaranty fund that may compensate consumers who suffer losses due to the acts of a licensed contractor. The fund is funded by contractor license fees, not taxpayer money.

What is the contractor licensing threshold in Maryland?

Under the Maryland Home Improvement Law, contractors must be licensed by MHIC for residential work valued at $200 or more. Verify a contractor's license at dllr.state.md.us/license/mhic before hiring.

What damages are available for consumer fraud in Maryland?

Actual damages plus attorney fees. For willful violations, up to three times actual damages. The AG may seek civil penalties up to $25,000 per violation against businesses targeting elderly consumers.

What is the statute of limitations for Maryland consumer fraud?

Three years under Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. Section 5-101.

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