Your guide to handyman license rules, insurance, and city requirements in Texas
Texas does not require a state-issued handyman license. But depending on the type of work you do and where you’re located, you may need permits, insurance or registration.
And if you’re wondering about the limits on what a handyman can do without a license in the Lone Star State, we’ve got that info in here for you, too.
Jump ahead to learn:
Texas does not issue a state-level handyman license. Whether you need one depends on the type of work you plan to do.
For small jobs:
If you plan to perform professional handyman services, such as minor repairs, drywall, carpentry or minor maintenance jobs, you usually won’t need a license.
For major jobs:
If your work will become a finished part of the structure or systems — such as HVAC work, roofing, plumber services, building a deck or wiring a new kitchen — you may need a Texas contractor license or registration in your city or county, depending on the scope.
Because rules can vary by city or county, it’s always smart to confirm requirements with your local offices. Not every contractor will need a local or state license.
To help clarify whether your work categorizes you as a handyman or general contractor, take a look at the examples in the chart below.
Handyman vs. Contractor
The right handyman insurance can help protect your business, and it can make you stand out and look more professional in a competitive market. The best insurance for you and your business depends on the type of work you do, whether you have any employees and several other factors.
Many people who do basic building repairs in your state put together an insurance protection policy consisting of these several types of business insurance available in Texas.
Unlike most states, Texas does not require business owners to have workers’ compensation insurance. However, if one of your employees gets hurt on the job, you could be subject to a lawsuit, which can have serious financial ramifications both personally and professionally.
Workers’ comp insurance can help protect your business from financial losses if an employee files a lawsuit against you. It may also help cover medical expenses, lost wages and more.
In Texas, general liability insurance can help protect your handyman business in the event you or one of your employees causes property damage, or if a non-employee gets injured and requires medical costs at one of your job sites. In addition, some clients may request proof of insurance, also known as a certificate of insurance, for this coverage before hiring you for a job in their home or business.
If you rent or own building space for your business, commercial property insurance could help pay for costs related to damage or vandalism, and help cover inventory and equipment stored in the space.
A business owner’s policy, also called a BOP insurance policy, combines general liability and commercial property insurance coverage into a single, often cost-efficient and convenient package.
A BOP can carry more protection than a single policy. It can help cover damage that you or your employees may inadvertently cause to another person’s property, as well as bodily injury accidents that injure any non-employee.
Tools and equipment insurance can help cover the cost of repairs and replacements for damaged or stolen work gear. You may choose to add this coverage to your general liability insurance policy.
Do you drive to different job sites for your work as a handyman? Commercial auto insurance can help cover costs related to accidents, such as medical expenses and property damage.
Texas law requires you to have the following minimum amounts of auto insurance:
If you plan to start a business in Texas, be prepared to apply for your Texas Business License, as this is a requirement.
Though no handyman laws exist in the state of Texas, some cities or jurisdictions require a specific license for general contractors for some jobs. Be sure to check the contractor license requirements where you work.
In addition, your local municipalities or city government may have specific registration or permit regulations.
For example:
You may need a building permit or registration as a contractor to work as a handyperson in Austin. This depends on the type of projects you plan to complete, so get in touch with the City of Austin to find out what’s required for your work.
If you’re working in Dallas, you’ll likely need to register as a contractor and may need a separate home repair license. Registering as a contractor costs $120 and the home repair license costs $68.
For specific tasks like electrical, plumbing or mechanical work, you’ll need to get specific permits. You can get these by reaching out to the Dallas Building Inspection Division.
Houston typically does not require registration for handypeople, though permits are needed for many projects. The Houston Public Works Project Planner can help you determine what permits you need.
For specific tasks like electrical, plumbing or mechanical work within Houston city limits, you’ll need a City of Houston Permit. You can get this from the Houston Permitting and Development Services Department.
Most handypeople in San Antonio must register as either a home improvement contractor (for limited repair work) or residential building contractor (for more extensive construction work). The city’s Development Services Department issues these registrations.
To get a home improvement contractor license you need to submit to a background check and provide a government-issued photo ID. You also need to provide a certificate of liability insurance with The City of San Antonio listed as the certificate holder. Here are the insurance requirement minimums:
Registration and renewal fees are $150 for two years.
NEXT makes it easy for Texas handypeople and contractors to get the right small business insurance.
In about 10 minutes you can apply online, customize coverage options and purchase policies. Your proof of insurance is always available 24/7 via web or mobile app.
And if you have questions, our licensed, U.S.-based insurance professionals are available to help.
Start a free quote with NEXT today.
Do you have handyman projects in another U.S. state? Learn what states require handyman licenses in our guide to handyman license requirements.
This information has been provided as a service. It is correct and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge; however, it is in no way intended to offer legal advice and you must always consult with local authorities before you make any business decisions. Regulations and requirements may change at any time.
Kim Mercado is a content editor at NEXT. She writes and edits content for small business owners, and enjoys helping entrepreneurs solve their business challenges and learn about insurance. Kim has contributed to Salesforce, Samsara and Google.
You can find Kim trying new recipes and cheering the 49ers.
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