A handyman is a professional who has the skillset and experience to make a wide range of repairs, typically around a client’s home. The work can be indoors or out and may be described as “fix-up tasks,” “odd jobs” or “maintenance.”
Whether you are currently a self-proclaimed handyman or are thinking about becoming one, you may wonder if you must obtain an Arkansas handyman license to operate legally within the state. It is important that you familiarize yourself with the handyman license requirements in Arkansas so that you may perform work within the constraints of the law.
Disclaimer: This article is not legal advice. You should consult your local regulations and a qualified attorney for legal advice.
Do You Need a License To Be a Handyman in Arkansas?
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If the total cost of the project (labor and materials) totals less than $2,000, and the project does not require any other licensing (e.g. electrical, plumbing, structural), then you do not need any special license to perform basic handyman work.
However, you do need a license to do handyman work in Arkansas if another person contracts you to do work on a single-family residence, and if the value of the project is $2,000 or more including labor and materials.
The license that best applies to a handyman in Arkansas is a Home Improvement License, which is managed like a contractor license, but with limitations. Work can include anything from painting to cabinetry, and from roofing to home additions.
So if you are just starting out as a professional handyman, you will either need to obtain a Home Improvement License, or restrict the size and type of work you do to stay within the legal limits.
Is There a Specific Handyman License in Arkansas?
The Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board issues several types of construction contractor licenses and certifications that could pertain to a professional handyman. The following three designations are most related to handyman work:
- Home Improvement License: This is most relevant to a handyman and will be necessary to do projects valued at more than $2,000.
- Residential Remodeler License: This could be for more ambitious or experienced handymen looking to do remodeling jobs, but is not for typical handyman work.
- Residential Roofing Registration: This will be necessary for anything beyond very basic roof repairs.
Home Improvement License
A handyman may obtain this type of license if he or she plans to perform improvement work on a home that has a projected value of $2,000 or more, including labor and material.
The work one can perform under this type of licensure includes specialty work, such as roofing, flooring and painting. It does not permit a person to do structural work such as remodeling or building a home.
There is a temporary Home Improvement License that is valid for only 90 days once the board issues it. This is generally only available to more experienced handymen with references, or to licensed contractors from out of state.
Residential Remodelers License
Arkansas requires handymen who plan to make structural changes to a single-family residence or to add onto an existing single-family residence to obtain a remodelers license if the value of the project is $2,000 or more. The cost of the project includes the cost of both material and labor, among other projected expenses.
There is also a Temporary Residential Remodeler License that is only valid for 90 days once the board issues it. It is for contractors who currently possess out-of-state contractors licensure or people who can provide references demonstrating their capabilities.
This may be a convenient licensing mechanism for an experienced handyman, with good references, to take on larger projects with a limited scope and timeframe.
Residential Roofing Registration
Handyman professionals who plan to perform projects that involve roofing, roofing sheet metal or roof decks and that have a value of $2,000 — including labor and material — must obtain residential roofing registration.
This is true even for persons who possess a Home Improvement License for this type of specialized work. However, persons with residential remodelers or residential builders licenses do not need to obtain registration.
Limited Versus Unlimited Licensure
Arkansas classifies its handyman licenses in two main ways: limited and unlimited. With a limited license, you can only perform residential jobs with values up to $50,000. With an unlimited license, there is no dollar limit on the value of the residential jobs you may perform.
Arkansas Handyman License Requirements
If you wonder how to get a Home Improvement License to work as a handyman in Arkansas, know that the state has just two main requirements:
- Three references (for most license types)
- A financial statement
As a licensed handyman, you are limited in the type and scope of work you may perform. With a limited Home Improvement License, you may only perform up to $50,000 worth of work. Within the scope of this license, you are permitted to perform home improvement and repair tasks, such as painting, laying flooring, installing siding, installing cabinetry and even roofing. However, you cannot take on projects that involve specialized trades, such as plumbing, electrical or HVAC, as those projects require contractor licensure through a different state agency.
Insurance Requirements
You must obtain workers’ compensation insurance and present proof of coverage if you possess an unlimited license and employ one or more employees.
Though state law does not require handyman professionals (or persons with a Home Improvement License) to carry commercial liability insurance, it is a good idea to carry it regardless, as it could protect you against financial and legal liability should bodily injury or property damage occur on a job.
Use the tool below to request a free commercial insurance quote from our partners.
Arkansas Handyman Licensing and Registration Fees
Those interested in handyman work are best served by a Home Improvement License, and the only type of fee a person must pay when applying for this license is the filing fee. A background check is not required in order to obtain a Home Improvement License in Arkansas. The most current filing fee schedule is as follows:
- $50 for a Home Improvement License
- $20 for a Residential Roofer License
- $50 for a Residential Remodeler License
These fees are accurate at the time of writing but are subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date filing fees, contact your local board.
Handyman Training and Certification Programs
Arkansas does not require handyman applicants to undergo any formal training or certification. However, if you intend to obtain the residential remodelers license, you need to present passing scores from the Arkansas Business and Law test.
Specific certifications or memberships, such as obtaining a home inspector certificate or joining The Association of Certified Handyman Professionals, can lend credibility to your business. It is also essential to understand fundamental business principles, which you can gain through an online training program.
Arkansas Handyman License Application
You do not have to go through any training or pass any exams to become a licensed handyman in Arkansas.
You can find the applications for a Home Improvement License, Residential Roofer License, and more on the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board website. Pay close attention to the following fields within the application:
- The section in which you are asked to identify the type of license for which you wish to apply (Limited/Unlimited or Restricted/Unrestricted). This section is typically located at the top of the application. Compare the dollar amount of each option to the value of the project(s) you plan to complete to ensure you check the correct box.
- The section that enquires about the type of entity seeking licensure: Sole proprietorship, corporation, LLC, LP, LLP or partnership. Make sure you have documentation that matches the entity type you choose.
- The field for Fictitious Name/DBA name.
- The “References” pages, which must be completed by persons other than you.
Specific certifications or memberships, such as obtaining a home inspector certificate or joining The Association of Certified Handyman Professionals, can lend credibility to your business. It is also essential to understand fundamental business principles, which you can gain through an online training program.
Handyman License Arkansas FAQ
1. What Happens if I Do Not Have the Right License?
If you do not have the appropriate handyman license in Arkansas, and if you perform work on a project with a value of over $2,000, you face fines of between $100 and $200 for each day of unlicensed work.
2. How Long Is My Arkansas Handyman License Valid?
Arkansas handyman licenses are good for a period of one year from the date of issuance. The State Licensing Board will mail a renewal reminder 60 days before the expiration date. The cost to renew a license is the same as the cost to obtain an initial license.
3. Who Can I Contact if I have Questions?
If you have additional questions regarding handyman licensure in Arkansas, contact the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board at the following:
Phone: (501) 372-4661
Fax: (501) 372-2247
Mail: 4100 Richards Road
North Little Rock, Arkansas 72117
Obtaining an Arkansas handyman license gives you the capacity to perform various types of work on residential properties. Obtaining licensure is easy and affordable and can present you with several career opportunities.
For More License and Career Guides
To find out how to become a Handyman in another state, start here.
For information on other trades in Arkansas, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
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