The Massachusetts handyman industry is growing and is an excellent job opportunity for those who are good with their hands. This guide answers questions about getting a handyman license in Massachusetts, including the insurance requirements, registration fees, and job restrictions. Those who live in Massachusetts can perform a lot of handyman jobs without a contracting license. However, you should be prepared to get a specialized license if you want to complete structural renovations or do jobs on large structures.
This Massachusetts handyman license guide is for everyone who wants to start performing home improvement work in Massachusetts.
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 Massachusetts?
Under Massachusetts law, a handyman is an individual who completes property repairs or performs small home improvement jobs. You need to register as a home improvement contractor with the state for smaller jobs, but you do not need a contracting supervisor license.
With a home improvement contractor license, you can bid on, solicit, and perform work on existing one-to-four-unit residential properties. You can work as the main contractor or subcontractor on these jobs. You cannot perform significant demolition or construction jobs with this license.
Is There a Specific Handyman License in Massachusetts?
There are no handyman license requirements in Massachusetts, but you need to register as a home improvement contractor with the state. You need a construction supervisor license to perform more complex jobs on larger structures. There are two types of construction supervisor licenses:
- An unrestricted license: This license allows you to perform construction, demolition, and repair jobs on any building less than 35,000 cubic feet in size.
- A restricted license: This type allows you to perform construction, demolition, and repair projects on family structures but not on business or agricultural buildings.
There are several types of specialty construction supervisor licenses if you want to perform more skilled work. The following specialty licenses are available in Massachusetts:
- Masonry
- Roof covering
- Doors and siding
- Windows
- Fuel-burning appliances
- Insulation
Obtaining a specialty license allows you to perform work on buildings less than 35,000 cubic feet in size. Individuals are permitted to hold multiple licenses.
Handyman License Requirements Massachusetts
Are you wondering how to get a handyman license in Massachusetts? While there is no required license for handypersons in Massachusetts, there is a registration process. This process is facilitated by the state’s Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.
You can register as an individual, proprietorship, partnership, or corporation. You must be at least 18 years of age to register. If you want to register under a trade name, you need to provide a valid copy of your business certificate. The registration process does not require an exam, but there is a registration fee.
An online guide walks you through the registration process available through Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.
There is an exam if you wish to get a construction supervisor license. You need at least three years of experience to be eligible to take the exam.
Insurance Requirements
Home improvement contractors do not need general liability insurance to maintain an active registration. However, you need liability insurance if you perform work as a construction supervisor. You should also carry workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees.
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Massachusetts Handyman Licensing and Registration Fees
Home improvement contractors must pay a $150 fee to register as a handyman in Massachusetts. Also required is a guaranty fund based on the size of your company:
- 0 to 3 workers: $100 fee
- 4 to 10 workers: $200 fee
- 11 to 30 workers: $300 fee
- More than 30 workers: $500 fee
You should pay the fees to the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. You can complete the registration process and pay online. You must use a certified bank check or money order to pay online.
You can also complete the registration process and pay by mail. Download the form and mail it to the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. You can also deliver the application and pay the registration fee in person.
Handyman Training and Certification Programs
Formal handyman training is not required in Massachusetts, nor is there an exam requiring specific training or knowledge. However, most people will benefit from a handyman or basic trade certification course.
The MotoRing Technical Training Institute is a school that offers a variety of programs related to home improvement. The school offers an entry-level course that guarantees basic home improvement competency after completing a 30-week full-time training program.
The school’s main campus is located in Seekonk, Massachusetts. You need a high-school diploma or equivalent to enroll. All applicants must pass an interview conducted by school administrators.
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 Massachusetts FAQ
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about getting a handyman license in Massachusetts.
Is My Handyman License Only Valid in Massachusetts?
No state reciprocity agreement lets you use your home improvement contractor registration in another state. However, if you hold an out-of-state handyman license, it will count toward your experience requirement if you want to apply for a construction supervisor license. You will still need to pay the fee and take the practical exam.
How Often Do I Need to Renew My Handyman License in Massachusetts?
You need to renew your home improvement contractor registration every other year. You can renew the registration online or complete the process in person. A $100 registration fee is required.
Who Can I Contact If I Have Questions?
You should contact the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation if you have questions about the registration process. You can visit its website or contact them via phone at 617-973-8787 or 888-283-3757.
Registering as a handyman is a great way to start a new career and make money in the growing home improvement industry. While there is no required Massachusetts handyman license, the state offers more license types for those who want to perform more specialized work such as home renovations.
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 Massachusetts, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
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