The state Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation is warning homeowners in Dundalk whose homes were flooded last week by the water main break to use licensed contractors.

“Too often, unlicensed contractors arrive after a tragedy such as this flood with offers to help when their true intent is to prey upon and rob individuals and families in distress,” DLLR Secretary Thomas E. Perez said in a press release. “Often the first available or the cheapest contractor is not the right choice.”

Homeowners who use licensed home improvement contractors are protected by the Maryland’s Home Improvement Guaranty Fund. This fund is administered by DLLR’s Home Improvement Commission to compensate homeowners who suffer economic damages at the hands of a licensed home improvement contractor. No coverage is provided to the homeowner if the contractor is unlicensed.

It is against the law for any home improvement contractor, electrician, plumber, or HVACR contractor to work in Maryland without a license. Penalties include criminal fines or imprisonment.

Consumers may contact DLLR’s Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing at 410-230-6001 or http://www.dllr.state.md.us/to check the licensing status and complaint history of any contractor.

My fellow blogger Liz Kay also provided other tips for flood victims last week.