Home improvement projects—also known as home repairs, renovations, or remodeling—range from small painting projects to complete reconstruction of rooms or of an entire home.

Home improvement projects can present a number of potential legal issues, including financing and loans (home equity line of credit or HELOC, for example); the construction contract for the work (materials and labor); surveys and lot lines; mechanic’s liens; waivers or releases of mechanic’s liens; insurance against damage or loss (builder’s risk) to the home or materials; and worker’s compensation insurance to insure against personal injuries sustained by a contractor or subcontractor.

In Michigan, home improvement projects are subject to various legal considerations. Financing such projects often involves a home equity line of credit (HELOC), which allows homeowners to borrow against the equity in their home. The construction contract is a critical document that outlines the scope of work, materials, labor, and payment terms. It's important to ensure that the contract is clear and comprehensive to avoid disputes. Homeowners should also be aware of property boundaries and may need to conduct surveys to confirm lot lines before starting construction to avoid encroachment issues. Mechanic’s liens are a legal tool that contractors and subcontractors can use to secure payment for their work; homeowners may need to manage waivers or releases of these liens upon satisfactory completion of the work. Insurance is another key consideration: builder’s risk insurance can protect against damage or loss during the project, and worker’s compensation insurance is necessary to cover personal injuries that contractors or subcontractors might sustain on the job. It is advisable for homeowners to consult with an attorney to navigate these legal aspects effectively and to ensure compliance with all relevant state statutes and federal laws.