Maryland General Contractor | Residential, Commercial & Public Works
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Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers from Maryland’s trusted general contractor.
Got questions about your upcoming project? We’ve compiled answers to the most common topics — from permits and contracts to timelines, payments, and inspections.
Frequently Asked Questions
At A.L. Brown Development Group LLC, we’re a licensed Maryland general contractor committed to delivering quality residential and commercial remodeling services. From kitchens and bathrooms to full home renovations and commercial build-outs, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Explore our FAQ page to find clear answers to the most common questions about remodeling, construction timelines, estimates, permits, and more. Have a question that isn’t listed here? Contact A.L. Brown Development Group LLC today for a free consultation and discover how we can help bring your project to life with craftsmanship and integrity.
General Contractor FAQs
Q1: What services do you provide as a general contractor?
We handle residential renovations, commercial improvements, and public works projects across Maryland. Our scope includes kitchen and bathroom remodeling, basement finishing, home additions, tenant improvements, ADA upgrades, and site development. We focus purely on construction, coordination, and project management — not design.
Q2: Are you licensed and insured in Maryland?
Yes. A.L. Brown Development Group LLC is a licensed Maryland Home Improvement Contractor (MHIC #05-164397) and fully insured, carrying general liability, auto, and workers’ compensation coverage. We comply with Maryland’s building codes and MHIC regulations to ensure every project meets safety and quality standards.
Q3: Do you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes. We serve both residential clients (kitchens, baths, additions, basements, full-home remodels) and commercial clients (tenant build-outs, retail upgrades, ADA compliance, facility improvements). We also participate in government and public-sector projects across Maryland.
Q4: What areas do you serve?
We work throughout Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, Howard County, and Prince George’s County, with select projects in surrounding Maryland communities depending on size and scheduling.
Q5: Do you provide free estimates?
Yes. We offer free consultations and estimates for residential and light commercial projects. Share a few details about your project (scope, location, and timeline), and we’ll schedule a site visit or virtual walkthrough to prepare an accurate quote.
Q6: What information should I prepare before requesting an estimate?
It’s best to have basic measurements, reference photos, or existing drawings, plus an approximate budget range. These details help us prepare a realistic, detailed scope and identify any permit or structural considerations early on.
Q7: Do you assist with permits and inspections in Maryland?
Yes — we assist clients with permit coordination and document processing for residential, commercial, and government projects.
We’ll prepare and organize all required paperwork for submission to local authorities (e.g., Baltimore City DHCD or Baltimore County Permits).
Permit and inspection fees are paid directly by the client. Our team ensures proper documentation, scheduling, and code compliance throughout the process.
Q8: How long does a typical project take?
Project duration depends on scope and permitting:
- Small interiors: 2–6 weeks
- Kitchens & baths: 4–10 weeks
- Additions/basements: 8–16 weeks
- Commercial TI: 3–12+ weeks
- Public works: As scheduled per jurisdiction
Before mobilization, we provide a detailed timeline outlining each construction phase and inspection milestone.
Q9: Do you offer design services?
We’re a builder, not a design firm. However, we collaborate with licensed architects and interior designers when required. Our priority is constructability, material efficiency, and compliance with Maryland codes.
Q10: How are estimates and change orders handled?
All estimates include clear inclusions, exclusions, and milestones. Any modification after contract signing is processed through a written change order, outlining new costs and schedule impacts.
No work begins on changes until approved by you — ensuring total cost control and transparency.
Q11: What deposit do you require for residential projects?
Per Maryland’s MHIC law, residential deposits cannot exceed one-third (1/3) of the total contract value (unless custom-ordered materials are needed). Remaining payments are scheduled based on project milestones or progress draws.
Q12: How do commercial projects differ from residential?
Commercial construction often involves phased scheduling, after-hours work, and strict inspection coordination to minimize disruption to business operations.
We work with landlords and property managers to meet accessibility, fire safety, and ADA requirements while maintaining operational safety and code compliance.
Q13: What’s included in your proposal—and what’s not?
Included: labor, materials, standard site protection, debris disposal, project supervision, and final inspection coordination.
Excluded: permit and inspection fees, owner-furnished items, hazardous material abatement, and design or engineering services unless specifically stated in the contract.
Q14: How do you ensure jobsite safety?
We implement a comprehensive safety program that includes daily jobsite inspections, safety briefings, and OSHA-compliant procedures. All workers are required to wear PPE, and all sites are kept clean, secure, and hazard-free.
Q15: How do you communicate during construction?
You’ll receive weekly project updates that include progress photos, schedule summaries, and next-step notices. Your project manager remains your single point of contact from mobilization to final inspection.
Q16: Can you help with budgeting before drawings are final?
Yes. We provide conceptual budgeting, value-engineering options, and scope alternates early in the planning stage. This helps control cost before design completion and prevents unnecessary change orders later.
Q17: How do you verify a Maryland contractor’s license?
You can verify any contractor’s MHIC license on the Maryland Department of Labor’s website.
Search by company name or license number to view license status, complaints, or disciplinary records — a crucial step before signing any construction agreement.
Q18: What happens after project completion?
We perform a final walkthrough with the client to address punch-list items and confirm satisfaction. Once complete, we issue a closeout package that includes warranty documentation and maintenance guidance for your newly built space.
Q19: What types of public works projects do you take on?
Included: labor, materials, standard site protection, debris disposal, project supervision, and final inspection coordination.
Excluded: permit and inspection fees, owner-furnished items, hazardous material abatement, and design or engineering services unless specifically stated in the contract.
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Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Contact A.L. Brown Development Group LLC to speak directly with our team.
Whether it’s about permits, pricing, or scheduling, we’re ready to provide clear, honest guidance.