Business Regulation - Home Improvement Contracts - Deposits

HB 1499 increases the maximum deposit a home improvement contractor can require before signing a contract from one-third to one-half (50%) of the total contract price. This change directly affects home improvement contractors and consumers who enter into such contracts in Maryland. The bill amends Maryland's Business Regulation law (Section 8-617) to allow contractors to collect larger upfront payments. The new limit takes effect on October 1, 2026. The bill does not change other requirements for home improvement contracts.