The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that general handyman jobs are indicated to grow by about 8% over the next several years. That makes it an attractive job opportunity for individuals who enjoy working with their hands.
You may be surprised to learn that there is no specific West Virginia handyman license. Instead, a general contractor license is required for residential construction projects over $5,000 and commercial ones valued at over $25,000. Keep reading to learn more about how to get a handyman license in West Virginia and when one is needed.
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 West Virginia?
There are no handyman license requirements West Virginia handyman professionals need to follow. However, there are restrictions on the size and scope of work that an unlicensed handyman can perform. For example, any residential building projects costing $5,000 or more or commercial projects costing $25,000 or more require a building contractor license.
You may also be restricted in what type of work you perform. For example, you must have an HVAC license to install, service, or repair heating and cooling systems. Plumbing work also requires a specialty certification in West Virginia.
You will also need to get a West Virginia State Tax Business License to operate a business in the state legally.
Is There a Specific Handyman License in West Virginia?
There is not a specific West Virginia handyman license. Instead, larger projects require a general contractor license.
West Virginia Handyman License Requirements
As long as you perform traditional handyman work on projects under $5,000 in total cost while excluding plumbing and HVAC work, you do not need to worry about handyman license requirements in West Virginia. However, if you move beyond that, you will need to get a contractor or specialty license.
Our general contractor guide provides excellent information about requirements and how to get a West Virginian contractor’s license. You can also get more information about obtaining your contractor license from the Division of Labor Contractor Licensing Board.
Check out these resources for more clarification on what is handyman work and what needs a contractor license:
- Can a Handyman Do a Remodel Job? (Bathroom, Kitchen & More)
- Can a Handyman Hire Subcontractors?
- What Type of Work Can a Handyman Do Legally?
- Does a Handyman Need a License? (What Kind and From Whom)
Insurance Requirements
All businesses in West Virginia must register with WorkForce West Virginia. Then, the agency will determine whether you need to provide unemployment insurance for employees.
Workers’ compensation insurance is required for any business with one employee or more. This must be obtained through a private insurer. For more information, visit the West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commissioner Employer Coverage Unit.
There are no commercial liability requirements for handymen in West Virginia. However, choosing a policy that protects your assets is generally good. Use the tool below to request a free commercial insurance quote from our partners.
West Virginia Handyman Licensing and Registration Fees
There are no fees associated with getting a handyman license in West Virginia. However, there are several fees you should be aware of if you are planning to get a general contractor’s license. These are set by the Division of Labor Contractor Licensing Board.
Handyman Training and Certification Programs
There are few formal handyman training programs available. However, that does not mean you should forgo training altogether. You can learn valuable skills in certification programs at technical schools or community colleges in many cases.
The following schools in West Virginia offer construction technology programs that may be helpful:
- Center for Employment Training, Alexandria, VA (703) 461-9767
- Danville Community College, Danville, VA (800) 560.4291
- Tidewater Tech-Trades, Norfolk, VA (757) 858-8324
- Wytheville Community College, Wytheville, VA (276)223-4700
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 West Virginia FAQ
We frequently get questions about how to get a handyman license in West Virginia. Here are a few of the most common answers we provide to prospective handymen.
1. What Happens If I Do Not Have the Right License?
There are penalties for contracting without a license in West Virginia, so you should be very careful about staying within eh restrictions of what a handyman can and cannot do. According to WV Code Chapter 21, Article 11A, anyone found guilty of unlicensed contracting can be fined:
- Between $200 and $1,000 for a first offense
- Between $500 and $5,000 and up to six months in the county or regional jail for a second offense
- Between $1,000 and $5,000 and 30 days to one year in the county or regional jail for any subsequent offenses
2. Who Can I Contact If I Have Questions?
Any questions should be directed to the Division of Labor Contractor Licensing Board. You can contact them by calling (304)558-7890 or emailing Licensing@wv.gov.
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 West Virginia, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
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