FAQs

Are handymen licensed?

Handymen are not a licensed trade. There is no handyman license in Massachusetts or Rhode Island. It is possible a handyman does have a license in a particular trade or possibly a general contractor’s license.

 

Are handymen an actual business entity?

If someone is offering handyman services, they should be a certified business entity such as DBA (Doing Business As), Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, LLC (LImited Liability Corporation) or corporation. This gives consumers some assurance there is a public record of business ownership and an avenue to pursue should someone encounter problems.

 

What does it mean to be registered?

Both Massachusetts and Rhode Island have a registration process for people who offer handyman or remodeling type services that fall outside of the licensed trades such as electricians, plumbers, HVAC, and Mechanical. In Massachusetts the designation is an HIC or Home Improvement Contractor. In Rhode Island it is a Registered Contractor.ere. 

 

Why is registration important?

The main reason is it allows a consumer to participate in assistance and compensation from the state for shoddy or unfinished work. If you deal with someone who is not registered, you have no avenue to pursue other than directly with the person offering the services.

 

Are handymen insured?

They should be. If the person offering services is an actual business entity, then they should have business liability insurance. This protects the consumer from a claim someone working on a homeowner’s property might file against the homeowner’s insurance.

 

Are handymen bonded?

Some are, but it is not absolutely necessary. A bond is a guarantee from an insurance company to reimburse a consumer for shoddy or unfinished work. A homeowner would file a claim with the insurance company against the bond issued to the handyman by the insurance company.

 

What can’t handymen do?

Basically, anything that falls into a category of work that requires a licensed tradesperson and is work that requires a building permit and inspection. However, there are categories of work that require a local building permit that handymen can do.

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How should I choose a handyman?

First, make sure the person is an actual business entity and carries liability insurance. They should also be registered in the state(s) they work in.

 

Second, make sure they have the necessary experience for your particular project. Ask to see pictures, get recommendations, and seek out reviews.

 

Third, get it in writing. If you have a high dollar value or complicated project, get a written estimate up front that specifies the scope of the work and materials to be used.