FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
What is your service area?
Martin’s Construction serves waterfront homeowners in the Ocean City, MD area, including Ocean Pines, Berlin, Fenwick Island, and into the Delaware beaches.
Do I need a permit for waterfront construction on the Delmarva Peninsula?
Yes, most waterfront projects, including docks, bulkheads, riprap, and boat lift installation, require permits from state and local agencies. In Maryland, that typically means the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE); in Delaware, it’s DNREC. We can walk you through what’s required for your specific project and location.
How do I get started with Martin's Construction?
The easiest first step is to request a free consultation. We’ll come out to your property, assess your waterfront, and talk through your options before you commit to anything. You can reach us by phone at 410-251-5875 or through our contact form.
How long have you been doing marine construction on Delmarva?
Martin’s Construction is a locally owned and operated business rooted in the Ocean City, MD community. We’re not a large out-of-town contractor. We live here, and we’ve built our reputation one waterfront property at a time.
What is the best time of year to schedule waterfront construction?
Late fall through early spring is often ideal for scheduling, as demand is lower and we can lock in your spot before the busy season. That said, we work year-round. Weather and tidal conditions play a bigger role in timing than the season itself, and we’ll plan your project around both.
Can you handle a project that involves multiple services, such as a new dock, bulkhead, and boat lift together?
Absolutely. In fact, combining work into a single project is often more efficient and cost-effective. We’ll coordinate everything as one project so you’re not scheduling multiple contractors or paying separate mobilization costs.
Are your materials rated for saltwater and brackish water conditions?
Yes. Everything we specify, including framing, hardware, fasteners, cables, and electrical components, is selected with the corrosive conditions of coastal Maryland and Delaware in mind. We don’t use materials that are suited only for freshwater environments.
What happens if a storm damages my waterfront structure after you've built it?
Call us. Martin’s Marine Construction offers repair and assessment services for existing structures, including ones we’ve built.
Do you work with waterfront properties on canals, creeks, and bays?
Yes. We work on all types of waterfront properties across Delmarva, from open bay frontage to narrow tidal canals, back creeks, and protected coves. Site conditions like water depth, tidal range, and bottom type all factor into how we approach each project.
How do I know which waterfront solution is right for my property?
That’s exactly what our free consultation is for. Every shoreline is different with factors influencing it like your water depth, wave exposure, soil type, property layout, and how you use your waterfront all matter. We’ll come out, take a look, and give you an honest recommendation before any work begins.