Arkansas Handyman Regulations

The $2,000 Threshold

A handyman in Arkansas can perform work on residential projects without a state-issued Home Improvement License as long as the total cost of the job (including all materials and labor) is under $2,000. This allows for a variety of small repair, maintenance, and improvement tasks. For commercial projects, this unlicensed limit is $50,000.

It's crucial to note that this $2,000 limit for residential work is strict. Attempting to circumvent this by breaking down a larger project into smaller invoices under $2,000 is against the regulations and can lead to penalties.

Services an Unlicensed Handyman Can Typically Perform (Under $2,000 for residential):

Within this financial limit, a handyman can generally undertake a wide range of tasks that do not require specialized trade licenses. These often include:

Basic Home Repairs: Fixing leaky faucets (if no pipe alteration is needed), repairing minor issues with non-structural elements, patching small areas of drywall.
Minor Maintenance Work: Gutter cleaning, pressure washing, fence staining, screen installation, and similar upkeep tasks.
Small Painting Jobs: Interior and exterior touch-ups or painting small areas.
Simple Carpentry Tasks: Adjusting doors, installing shelves, assembling furniture, minor cabinet repairs.
Fixture and Appliance Installation (Non-Specialized): Installing pre-assembled shelving, hanging pictures or blinds, and some basic appliance hook-ups that don't involve modifying existing plumbing or electrical systems extensively.
Yard Work and Landscaping: Basic landscaping, yard cleanup, and minor irrigation repairs that don't involve new system installations requiring permits.

Work Requiring a License (Regardless of Cost or Over $2,000)

Certain types of work are restricted and require a specific license from the relevant Arkansas board, even if the project cost is under $2,000. These typically include:

Electrical Work: Any significant electrical work, such as replacing outlets, switches, installing new wiring, or altering electrical systems, generally requires a licensed electrician. Homeowners may be able to replace like-for-like fixtures in their own homes, but handymen performing this for others need to be cautious.
Plumbing Work: Major plumbing tasks, including altering or rearranging pipes, installing new plumbing systems, or work that requires permits, must be done by a licensed plumber. While replacing a faucet washer or clearing a drain might be acceptable, more involved work is not.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning): All work on HVAC systems typically requires a specialized HVAC license.
Structural Work: Any work that involves altering the structural components of a building, such as modifying load-bearing walls, foundations, or significant roofing projects, requires a licensed contractor.
Projects Over $2,000 (Residential): For any residential home improvement project where the total cost (labor and materials) is $2,000 or more, the individual or company performing the work must hold a Home Improvement License from the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board. This license has categories like "Limited" (for projects up to $50,000) and "Unlimited".

Home Improvement License

If a handyman wishes to take on residential projects valued at $2,000 or more, they must obtain a Home Improvement License. This license covers specialty work such as painting, flooring, siding, cabinetry, and roofing (though roofing has specific registration requirements as well). Getting this license involves an application process, a fee, providing references, a financial statement, and proof of worker's compensation insurance if they have employees. An exam is not typically required for the Home Improvement License itself, but may be for other contractor classifications.

Important Considerations:

Local Regulations: Individual cities and counties in Arkansas may have additional licensing or permit requirements on top of state laws. It's essential to check with local city government offices.
Advertising: Unlicensed handymen should be careful not to advertise themselves as "licensed contractors" if they do not hold the appropriate state licenses.
Contracts: For any work performed, it is highly recommended to have a clear, written contract detailing the scope of work, materials, costs, and timelines. The Arkansas Attorney General's office provides guidance on what should be included in a home improvement contract.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and is based on search results regarding Arkansas handyman and contractor laws as of late May 2025. Laws and regulations can change. It is recommended to consult the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board or a legal professional for the most current and specific advice regarding your situation or projects. Visit the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board for more information.