Are you planning to get a handyman license or planning to start a business in the state of California, but you don't know where to start? Perhaps you've already asked someone you know or visited many websites, but the process is still unclear? Going through the legal jargon might be hard to comprehend, especially for handymen who know little about the law. 

Don't worry. I got you covered! I'll explain everything that you need to know on how you'll be able to get that California handyman license.

Here's everything you need, and let's go straight to the point.

Do you need a Handyman License in California? Here is the answer.

You are free to offer your handyman services in the state of California. However, there are a few limitations that you need to know, and I'll explain them to you.

Without a handyman permit or a license means, you will encounter the following scenarios:

You are limited to the $500 Mark.

The $500 mark means one thing - you are not allowed to work on a project above $500. You are not permitted to do the job even if you spearhead the project. Splitting of projects to meet the limit is also not allowed in the state of California.

You have limited opportunities.

The $500 limitation in contract cost and opportunities might be a deal-breaker for your business. But handymen still make a decent profit in California as the state has friendlier laws than other American provinces.

You could still do jobs like minor plumbing, windows, and doors repairs and installation, fan installation, fixing fences, drywall, toilets, and appliances repairs, to name a few. 

In addition, the law exposes a gray area by labeling any work an unregistered handyman does in the above situation as "inconsequential, minor or casual." It is hard to come to terms with this language, as most people are unaware of the implications.

What are the advert restrictions for California Unlicensed Handyman?

According to the California Contractor's License Law and Reference Book, "This exemption does not apply to a person who advertises or puts out any sign or card or other devices which might indicate to the public that he or she is a contractor or that he or she is qualified to engage in the business of a contractor."

By implication, although you are allowed as many contracts below the $500 mark without your license, you shouldn't be caught advertising yourself as a contractor. It means that even if you were to be doing an advert, you are to ensure you state clearly that you are unlicensed.

You could tell your clients that you are a 'handyman,' but if you advertise yourself as a licensed contractor – plumber, drywall installer, or electrician, you'll get into legal trouble in no time. Also, make sure to join an association, as this would help you reach out to other people in your line of work to aid you in getting a license easily.

Exemptions of the Law

According to the California Contractor's License Law and Reference Book, "Sale or installation of finished products that do not become a fixed part of the structure;."

An unlicensed handyman can perform a job that costs more than the $500 mark as long as the finished product installed doesn't become a fixed portion of the basic structure.

Therefore, you can hang pictures, build furniture, install shelves, and do several other similar jobs without getting into trouble. However, the term "fixed part of the main structure" is a vague phrase that can be interpreted in several ways without having a real answer. This seems to be a similar issue in almost all the American states. So for your protection and better interpretation of some of these license laws, make sure to join an association.

What if I am caught making contracts without a Contractor's License in California?

Below is an excerpt from the License Law Reference Handout;

"Contracting without a license is usually a misdemeanor. Unlicensed contractors face a first offense sentence of up to six months in jail 4 SECTION I. THE CALIFORNIA CONTRACTOR LICENSE, a $5,000 fine, and potential administrative fines of $200 to $15,000. Subsequent violations increase criminal penalties and fines."

Contracting without a CA license may be risky, and the liberty is just a hoax. A Statewide Investigative Fraud Team (SWIFT) closes down on defaulters on construction sites and the likes in search of contractors without a license. Make your decision now – to get a license or not!

What if I got my California Handyman License? Will it help me get a job?

Many opportunities are available to you as a professional with a California handyman license. You can get a job in the handyman industry with the following information:

Handyman Job Search Tips

• Ask for job leads from friends and colleagues.
• Attend contractor/handyman job fairs.
• Advertise your services as a handyman/contractor 

Got a Job Interview? Here are some Job Interview tips.

I wish you all the best for your California handyman job interview and hope you get the job soon. To help you out and increase your chances of catching the job, here are a few tips:

• Share a portfolio of your previous work with hiring managers.
• Wear professional attire.
• Practice your interview skills.
• Positively acknowledge previous employers.

Is there a trend in the Handyman Industry?

Yes indeed! Did you know that the handyman industry is growing at a rapid rate? Thanks to a strong U.S. economy, thousands of dollars are accessible to homeowners from financial institutions for home renovation. They use this money to hire handyman professionals to replace windows, renovate rooms, and perform electrical work.

Handyman professionals and general contractors do their work differently due to new technology. They learn about new tools and best practices by attending trade shows.

Need more tips?

Are you an amateur handyman seeking to bag your business license or an experienced veteran looking to expand your business? Learn how ServGrow's all-in-one handyman software can help your endeavor the fastest and easiest way. Remember, a successful handyman business is more than a catchy handyman slogan.