Delaware doesn’t require a specific handyman license. Most repair and construction work falls under general contracting rules. A handyman can work on jobs without a contractor license as long as the total project cost is under $50,000.
If you plan to do specialized work or if your projects exceed $50,000, you’ll need to obtain the appropriate contractor or trade-specific licenses first.
What an Unlicensed Handyman Can Do
Unlicensed handymen can perform basic maintenance and repair work that:
- It doesn’t involve structural modifications
- Falls below $50,000 in project value
- It doesn’t require specialized trade licenses
- It doesn’t involve the construction or modification of buildings
Common tasks include:
- Basic home repairs
- Simple installations
- Basic yard maintenance
- Minor carpentry projects that don’t involve structural changes
- General property maintenance
- Decorative improvements like painting
It’s important to note that even if you work as an unlicensed handyperson, you must still register your business with the Delaware Division of Revenue.
Limitations for Unlicensed Work
If you’re working as a handyman in Delaware without a license, there are several important boundaries to keep in mind:
Project value: Any work costing more than $50,000 will require a general contractor’s license.
Specialized trades: Don’t take on electrical work, plumbing, HVAC systems, or anything involving structural changes. Properly licensed professionals should always do these jobs.
Permits: Even if you’re allowed to do the work without a license, you might still need to get building permits for specific projects.
Advertising restrictions: When marketing your services, be careful not to present yourself as a licensed contractor unless you actually have those credentials.
How to Register as a Handyman
While Delaware doesn’t require a specific handyman license, there are a few key steps to make your business official:
Setting Up Your Business License
Every handyperson in Delaware needs a business license, whether working alone or with a team. The easiest way to get one is to apply online through Delaware’s Division of Revenue. You’ll receive a temporary license immediately.
If you prefer paper, you can mail in a Combined Registration Application. The license costs $75 per year for your first location, and you can save some hassle by paying for up to three years at once. Just remember to renew by December 31st or your original license date.
Protect Your Business with Insurance
Smart handymen carry general liability insurance even though it’s not strictly required. This coverage protects you if something gets damaged or someone gets hurt while you’re working.
If You Have Employees
Planning to hire help? Delaware law says you’ll need workers’ compensation insurance. This covers medical bills and lost wages if your employees get hurt on the job. The cost depends on your payroll size and the type of work you do.
Handyman License Local Requirements
While Delaware doesn’t have statewide handyman licensing requirements, you’ll need to follow specific rules depending on which city or county you work in:
Wilmington
If you’re working in Wilmington, you’ll first need to get your State of Delaware Business License, which you’ll then use to apply for your city business license. The good news is that if you stick to basic handyman work and minor repairs, you won’t need any special trade licenses.
Dover
Planning to work in Dover? You’ll need a city business license to operate legally within city limits. If you’re taking on projects that require building permits or involve specialized trades like plumbing or electrical work, you’ll need to meet both state and city regulations.
Newark
To work as a handyman in Newark, you’ll need to get a business license from the city. All work needs to stay within the city’s zoning and building code guidelines.
Rehoboth Beach
If you want to work as a handyman in Rehoboth Beach, you must first secure a city business license. While you can handle minor repairs without additional paperwork, the city keeps a close eye on bigger projects.
Planning to modify buildings or work on plumbing or electrical systems? Make sure to get the right permits and trade licenses first. They take this seriously here. Starting work without required permits can land you in hot water.
Middletown
To work as a handyman in Middletown, you’ll need to grab a town business license first. The good part is that minor repairs and maintenance jobs usually don’t need extra permits. Just keep in mind that the town regularly checks to ensure businesses follow local rules.
Sussex County
Things are a bit simpler in Sussex County. Handymen just need a state business registration to handle general repairs and maintenance. However, don’t skip the building permits if you’re diving into any construction work, including remodeling or additions.
When in doubt, it’s worth double-checking whether your project needs a permit before getting started.
Build a Handyman Career
People value their time more than ever, which is why so many turn over their household maintenance and repair jobs to a handyman. So if you have the skills, there’s money to be made. Home Gnome gives handymen an edge by connecting you with jobs in your area, saving you time and money and letting you focus on the work. Sign up now.
Note: Home Gnome may get a referral fee for matching you with pros in your area.
Main Image Credit: Sergii Pavlovskyi / Adobe Stock created using Canva Pro
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