When Does a Dallas Handyman Need a License and Insurance?
While minor repair jobs can be done without a license, there are many important home services which require one. Dallas homeowners must hire a properly licensed and insured handyman for the following jobs:
- Home remodeling work
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Air conditioning and HVAC
- Significant demolition
- Concrete work
- Drywall
The good news? Whether your handyman operates in North Dallas, Preston Hollow or Grand Prairie, the license requirements are exactly the same.
A Dallas handyman can register as a general contractor with Dallas City Hall using this official link.
If your handyman doesn’t have a license, there are still plenty of things he can do for you.
What General Maintenance Jobs Can a Dallas Handyman Service Do?
There are plenty of small jobs and maintenance tasks a handyman in Dallas can perform without a license.
Here’s an updated list of projects a handyman in Dallas can perform:
Handyman Indoor Jobs (Dallas Approved)
- Carpet Cleaning
- Door Installation
- Fireplace Cleaning
- Fixing and Installing Shelves
- Furniture Assembly
- Installing Countertops
- Replacing Light Fixtures and Outlets (not wiring)
- Small Carpentry
- Tiling
Handyman Outdoor Jobs
- Hanging Outdoor Lights (not wiring)
- Landscaping
- Lawn Mowing
- Installing a Mailbox
- Installing a Patio
- Power Washing, Driveway and Home Siding
- Outdoor Sprinkler Repair
- Tree Trimming
So, can a Dallas handyman do any remodeling jobs? What about repair or subcontracting work? It’s important you know exactly what you can (and can’t) hire a handyman to do so you don’t run into any building permit or inspection issues.
Let’s save you that hassle and dive into these specific handyman questions in a little more detail.
What Remodeling Jobs Can a Dallas Handyman Do?
A professional handyman is a ‘jack of all trades’ by nature. Even the best local handyman won't beat experienced, licensed subcontractors in their specific fields of expertise.
General contractors can answer questions, like “Is that wall load bearing?”, or “Will this addition need a new AC unit?”. They also know what kind of projects require a permit and who holds liability in a given construction project.
HOMR strongly recommends using a general contractor — not a handyman — for all remodeling projects. It's a safer prospect — there are so many aspects of larger projects that require a contracting license and specific skill sets.
For example — did you know you need a contractor's license to pour concrete and do demolition in Dallas?
If you're confident your handyman can support a remodeling crew, make sure he carries the proper license and insurance.
What Kinds of Repair Work Can a Dallas Handyman Do?
Handymen in Dallas are able to do most repair work without specific licenses. There are 2 specific exceptions — fencing and drywall. (More on that in a moment.)
HOMR members asked us specifically about hiring local handymen for fence repair and window repair jobs. Here's what we found.
Can a Dallas Handyman Do Fence Repair?
Unlike most of Texas, Dallas City Hall requires a general contractor's license to perform fence repair and construction within city limits under some conditions.
A Dallas handyman needs a permit to do the following fence jobs:
- Repair more than 25% of a side of your fence.
- Construct a fence more than 4 feet high in your front yard.
- Construct a fence more than 6 feet high in any other area.
A handyman from outside the Dallas area probably won't know this. Please take a moment to ensure your contractor is properly licensed for your fence project.
TLDR: If it’s a basic fence repair job, call a handyman. If you need extensive fence repair or a new fence, call a general contractor.
Come back soon for our in-depth guide to Dallas fence repair projects.
Can a Dallas Handyman Do Window Repair?
Yes, Dallas handymen can do window repair work. They can also measure drapes, install blinds, hang curtains, and install curtain rods.
Can a Dallas Handyman Do Subcontracting Jobs?
Dallas requires a license to conduct work in all major subcontracting fields. We don’t recommend hiring a handyman for the following projects.
Can A Dallas Handyman Do Plumbing Work?
A Dallas handyman cannot do plumbing work without a general contractor's license.
There are still ways a handyman can assist your plumber. You can ask a handyman to move or install a sink or toilet, for example — he just can’t hook up the plumbing in any way.
Can A Dallas Handyman Do Electrical Work?
A Dallas handyman cannot do electrical work without a general contractor's license.
Can a Dallas Handyman do Air Conditioning and HVAC Work?
A Dallas handyman cannot do air conditioning or HVAC work without a general contractor's license. You can ask a handyman to move or relocate your air conditioning unit, but he can’t hook it up.
Can a Dallas Handyman Service Install Appliances?
A Dallas handyman can install appliances, but cannot engage in any related plumbing or electrical work without a general contractor's license.
For this reason, HOMR recommends employing a licensed local handyman for appliance installation projects. Otherwise, you'll limit the handyman work to unloading and moving the appliances.
Can a Dallas Handyman Hang Drywall and Do Interior Painting?
A Dallas handyman cannot hang drywall without a general contractor's license. This is an easy way many Dallas homeowners fail home inspections.
However, if you just need small drywall repair, touch-up, corner taping, or texturing feel free to call a handyman!
There are no licensing restrictions on painting, so go crazy and hire a handyman to paint your new baby nursery.. You shouldn't expect the level of quality a professional painting service provides, but you'll likely pay less!
