Maine offers a scenic backdrop for starting a handyman business. There are no handyman license requirements Maine home improvement contractors must meet to perform basic repairs or small construction projects. However, plumbers, engineers, architects, electricians, and oil burner installers must be licensed by the state Department of Professional and Financial Regulation.
Although there is no statewide Maine handyman license, home improvement contractors must meet a few requirements. For example, they may not perform any work requiring a license. According to the Maine Home Construction Contracts Act, handymen must also provide a signed contract and state-provided statement to customers for projects over $3,000. In addition, cities, towns, and counties may impose licensing regulations for handymen and contractors.
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 Maine?
You do not need a handyman license to perform general home repairs or construction work in Maine. There is no dollar limit on the projects you can accept; however, projects valued over $3,000 require a written contract and statement of homeowner rights.
While there is no license requirement for home improvement contractors based on project size, you are limited in the types of work you can perform without a license. For example, you may not engage in any of the following types of work without the appropriate license:
- Plumbing
- Electrical projects
- Oil burner service or installation
- Radon testing or mitigation
Is There a Specific Handyman License in Maine?
There is no specific Maine handyman license. Instead, the Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation licenses specialty contractors in several fields through the Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
Maine Handyman License Requirements
Maine has minimal handyman license requirements. For the most part, home improvement contractors are not regulated in the state. However, there are a few things you must do to start a handyman business in Maine, including:
- Secure a business license
- Provide a written contract for all projects valued at over $3,000
- Adhere to rules set forth under Maine consumer rights laws (chapter 17)
It is essential to limit handyman activities to those that do not require a specialty license issued by the Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
For more information about other licenses in the state, please visit the following guides:
- Maine General Contractor License Requirements & Application Guide
- How To Become a Plumber in Maine
- How To Become an Electrical Contractor in Maine
The following articles provide general information about the scope of handyman work and the skills needed to maintain a Maine handyman license:
- What Is a Professional Handyman and How Do You Become One?
- Can a Handyman Do a Remodel Job? (Bathroom, Kitchen & More)
- Can a Handyman Hire Subcontractors?
- What Should a Handyman Be Able To Do? (Skills You Need)
Insurance Requirements
Most Maine businesses are required to carry worker’s compensation insurance. The state Workers Compensation Board oversees compliance with this requirement. However, according to the Maine Bureau of Insurance, sole proprietors without additional employees are not required to maintain workers’ compensation insurance. There is no need to file a waiver since the exemption is automatic.
If you use a vehicle for normal business operations, you also need to purchase adequate auto insurance through your private insurance agent.
While there is no requirement to have liability insurance as part of how to get a handyman license in Maine, many home improvement contractors choose to purchase commercial liability insurance. The right policy can help protect against legal claims for property damage or injuries related to your work.
Use the tool below to request a free commercial insurance quote from our partners.
Handyman Training and Certification Programs
Many people find that hands-on training is an excellent way to learn the skills needed for a Maine handyman license. If this is attractive to you, the Building Pathways Maine program offered by a consortium of several industry groups may be worth a closer look. It offers pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships to help you gain valuable experience in the construction trade.
If you are exploring how to get a handyman license in Maine, you might also want to look into some of the construction technology programs offered throughout the state. The Maine Department of Education has established standards for building trade education programs.
Additionally, several of Maine’s community colleges offer degree and certificate programs to help you master the skills needed to be a successful handyman. These schools include:
- Central Maine Community College, Auburn, ME (207) 755-5370
- Eastern Maine Community College, Bangor, ME (207) 974-4600
- Kennebec Valley Community College, Fairfield, ME (207) 453-5822
- Northern Maine Community College, Presque Isle, ME (207) 768-2700
- Southern Maine Community College, South Portland, ME (207) 741-5617
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 Maine FAQ
As you explore handyman careers, you are bound to have questions about how to get a handyman license in Maine. The following answers can clarify some commonly confusing aspects of the process.
1. What Happens If I Do Not Have the Right License?
Because there are very few regulations for handyman professionals and home improvement contractors in Maine, you may be tempted to think there is industry oversight. However, that would be a mistake. Handymen operating without the proper license for plumbing or electrical work will be investigated by the appropriate licensing board.
2. Who Can I Contact If I Have Questions?
Direct any additional questions about getting your Maine handyman license to the Maine Office of Professional & Occupational Regulation. You can reach the office at (207) 624-8603.
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 Maine, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
Call Us