Need a Home Services / Remodeling / Interior Renovation Contract in Michigan? AroundWire Can Help

In Michigan, contracts for home services, remodeling, and interior renovation typically require clear, written agreements detailing the scope of work, materials, timelines, payment schedules, and warranty terms. State law mandates that residential builders and maintenance & alteration contractors be licensed by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), and the contractor’s license number must appear on all contracts and advertisements. For projects exceeding $600, a written contract is legally required, and it must include specific consumer protection language as outlined in the Michigan Home Improvement Finance Act. Common risk factors include change orders, which must be documented in writing and signed by both parties, and potential disputes over incomplete or substandard work. Contractors must carry appropriate general liability insurance, and if they employ workers, valid workers’ compensation coverage is also required. Michigan prohibits excessive upfront payments; by custom and to avoid running afoul of consumer protection agencies, initial deposits are usually limited to a reasonable percentage (often 10–30%) of the total contract value. Progress payments are standard, tied to completion milestones. Dispute resolution typically begins with negotiation or mediation, but contracts often designate Michigan state courts as the venue for unresolved legal disputes. Local ordinances or homeowner association rules may impose additional permitting or compliance requirements, so contracts should specify responsibility for securing permits and ensuring regulatory compliance.