Do you need a Handyman *License in Pennsylvania, but you don't know where to start? Well, you've come to the right place! We got everything you need to know on how to get a Handyman License in the state of Pennsylvania.
*As of July 1, 2009, there will be some changes regarding contractor licensing requirements.
What is a Handyman?
A handyman is a person with versatile skills whose job is to help homeowners repair and maintain their homes when there is a need to do so. Think of it as your all-around guy with the skills and techniques to repair and maintain your house and every suitable location.
Does Pennsylvania require a handyman license? Here's the answer.
Yes, you need to get a handyman license in Pennsylvania if you are working around homes with these jobs:
If you want to obtain a handyman license in Pennsylvania, you must write to the Pennsylvania Bureau of Consumer Protection located in the Attorney General's office.
What handyman jobs in Pennsylvania don't require a license then?
A handyman license in the state of PA is not required if:
A Job's worth is less than $5,000
A worker who has done a job worth less than $5,000 of home improvements in the previous taxable year doesn't need to get a license. It's, however, suggested that someone who anticipates performing more than $5,000 in the following years should obtain a license this year.
You are a new home builder or a building supplier
A handyman license is not needed if you are a new building supplier or home builder that doesn't make home improvements.
What are the Three Business Day Rights to Rescission?
It's simply the "three-day rule" requiring a contractor to meet with the homeowner they intend to engage with business-wise within three (3) business days before they start a business.
Can you explain to me further how this system works?
Absolutely! Not counting holidays, the following are the guidelines on how the new system will work.
- If the contractor signs the contract on Monday, they can start the work on Friday, the same week
- If the contractor signs the contract on Tuesday, the work can commence on the following Saturday
- If the contractor signs the contract on Wednesday, they can start the job the next Tuesday
- If they sign the contract on Thursday, the contractor can start the work on Wednesday the following week
- If the contractor signs the contract on Friday, they can commence the work the next Thursday
- If they sign the agreement on either Saturday or Sunday, the work begins on the coming Friday
Do licensed handyman contractors in Pennsylvania need insurance?
Yes, and licensed Pennsylvania contractors must carry the following types of insurance:
- A personal injury insurance cover amounting to not less than $50,000
- Insurance cover for property and tools damages amounting to not less than $50,000
What are the licensed handyman contractual requirements in Pennsylvania?
The new law states that the violation of requirements can make the contract rendered invalid and unenforceable against the contractor. As a licensed contractor in the state of PA, you will need the following requirements:
- Commencement and completion dates
- Notice of Rescission Right
- Scope and specifications of the work
- The registration number of the contractor
- Insurance notice
- Deposits or down payments
- Contractor's full address (PO Box and other details)
- Change order notice
- Telephone number of the Pennsylvania Bureau of Consumer Protection in the Attorney General's Office
An important thing to remember.
The new law dictates that the contractor license holder will only be capable of accepting a third of the total contract amount as the down payment or deposit. The contract must clearly outline this rule.
Certification of Asbestos and Lead Abatement in Pennsylvania
All handyman contractors in Pennsylvania will need Asbestos and Lead Abatement certification.
Need more tips?
It will always be helpful if you educate yourself first about the different laws and requirements of getting a handyman license in the state of Pennsylvania. You can also check handyman blogs for other local municipal contractor license requirements and have a handyman slogan because contractors' laws may vary from one country to another. Double-checking the requirements of not only the state of Pennsylvania but also other states is always a good idea before accepting any contract.
If you are an amateur handyman seeking to bag your business license or an experienced veteran looking to expand your business entity, check ServGrow's all-in-one handyman software and learn how it can help your endeavor in the fastest and easiest way.
