Many Kansas residents rely on handyman services to assist with home repair and remodeling jobs. While handymen are not educated in one specific trade, they are skilled in numerous home maintenance tasks. The home repair industry is a solid job opportunity for those looking for a new career path, and it is relatively easy to run a handyman business.
Those who reside in Kansas can perform a variety of electrical, plumbing, and home maintenance tasks without a state license, but most local jurisdictions have their own requirements. This Kansas handyman license guide is for anyone looking to get into the home maintenance and repair industry.
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 Kansas?
Kansas does not provide an official definition for the handyman profession. However, the industry is comprised of people experienced in maintenance work, both inside and outside of the home. There is no official handyman license requirement in Kansas.
Is There a Specific Handyman License in Kansas?
There is no state-level handyman license required in Kansas to perform home maintenance jobs. Some states require home repair professionals to obtain general contractor licenses. Kansas does not require general contractor licenses. Instead, you must get any necessary permits through your local county, city, or jurisdiction.
Skilled professionals such as electricians and plumbers must obtain licenses from their local city board. These requirements vary by city, and you should check with your local board to make sure you get the proper permits.
For example, Johnson County does not require handyman licenses, but general contractor permits are needed before performing any repair work. Johnson County requires a Class A license for individuals who want to perform the following structural work:
- Remodeling
- Repairing
- Constructing
- Tenant finishes
- Non-structural remodeling
- Demolition
- Framing
- Swimming pool construction
More specialized trades may require a state-issued permit. Make sure to check with your local trade association to check the requirements.
Handyman License Requirements Kansas
If you’re looking for a handyman license in Kansas, you should know that there is no state license for handymen or general contractors, but there is a business registration process. This process is facilitated by the Kansas Secretary of State’s Office, regardless of where you live.
To legally form a business entity, you must submit the business formation documents, including identification and proof of address, and pay the required fees. You also need to file an annual report to keep your business registration active.
Insurance Requirements
As a handyman, you do not need liability insurance to maintain your state business registration. However, some jurisdictions may require insurance.
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Kansas Handyman Licensing and Registration Fees
Handyman license requirements in Kansas are set by local counties and states, but the business registration process is handled by the state. You must submit business formation documents and the associated fee to the Kansas Secretary of State. The cost depends on the type of entity you are forming:
- Limited Liability Company Registration: $165
- Corporation Registration: $90
- Non-Profit Registration: $90
- LLC Registration: $165
- Foreign Corporation Registration: $90
- Limited Partnership Registration: $165
The type of entity you choose to form for your handyman business depends on your location and if you plan to hire employees.
Handyman Training and Certification Programs
Formal handyman training is optional in Kansas, nor is there an exam requiring industry knowledge or experience. However, you may benefit from enrolling in a local trade school to learn the basics of home repair.
Kansas Community College is a trade school that offers a variety of courses related to home maintenance and repair. The school provides a Building Engineering and Maintenance Technology Certificate that prepares students to perform the following work:
- Service air conditioning units
- Repair furnace units
- Provide electrical repairs
- Repair plumbing systems
- Install and finish sheetrock
- Install windows
There are no specific requirements to enroll in the program. You should contact the school for program start dates and associated costs.
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 Kansas FAQ
Below are some answers to some frequently asked questions about getting a handyman license in Kansas.
How Do I Get a General Contractor’s License in Sedgwick County?
If you live in Sedgwick County, Kansas, you need to get a general contractor’s license from the Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department. Anyone who lives in Wichita and wants to specialize in electrical work, plumbing, and refrigeration needs to get a license from Sedgwick County.
How Often Do I Need to Renew My Business Registration in Kansas?
To avoid cancellation or late fees, you need to renew your business registration with the Kansas Secretary of State. You need to file an annual report and submit a payment with your renewal paperwork.
Who Can I Contact If I Have Questions?
You should contact the Kansas Secretary of State if you have questions about registering your business with the state. You can visit its website or contact them via phone at 785-296-4575.
If you are looking for a career as a handyman in Kansas, you need to contact your local city or county board to learn about permits and license requirements. There is no Kansas handyman license or general contractor permit requirements, but that does not mean that your local city does set its own requirements.
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 Kansas, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
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