Is this legal advice?

No. It is general information to help you decide who to call. License and permit rules differ by state, county, and city. Before you hire someone or start work, check with your state's licensing board and your local building department.

What's the difference between a handyman and a licensed contractor?

A handyman does small repairs. In many states, bigger jobs and trade work such as electrical, plumbing, gas, and heating and cooling need a licensed contractor. Where the line falls differs by state, so check yours.

Why don't you show a handyman rule for my state?

We show a state's handyman rule only after we check its law or licensing board. We list the sources and the date. For other states, use the license lookup we list. If your state has no statewide lookup, ask your city or county building office.

Does the tool save what I type?

No. It runs in your browser. What you type is not sent to us or saved. Your job and state appear only in the page address, so you can bookmark or share an answer.

Where do the answers come from?

Each answer links to its sources, led by government agencies, building codes, state laws, and manufacturer instructions. We used AI-assisted research and separate review passes that tried to prove each claim wrong. Publisher Mark Phaneuf is accountable for the tool.

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Who Should Fix It? DIY, Handyman, or Pro

Pick a home job to see who should do it: you, a handyman, or a pro. Each answer says why, where to stop, whether you'll likely need a permit, and what to ask before you hire.

This is general information, not legal advice. Rules differ by state and city. Check with your state's licensing board or your local building department before you hire or start work.

DIY Most homeowners can do it safely.
Handyman A small job. State limits vary.
Pro Needs a licensed trade, a permit, special training, or has real risk.
It depends One question decides it.

53 jobs. Tap one to see who should do it.

Plumbing and water

Fix a running toiletDIY

You can likely do this yourself. Many running toilets have a worn flapper, the rubber seal at the bottom of the tank. Others have a fill valve, the part that refills the tank, that needs adjusting or a swap. The EPA calls a flapper swap a quick and easy fix.

Stop: if the valve behind the toilet won't turn (don't force it) or it leaks. Also stop if the tank is cracked or water pools on the floor. Shut off the main water if you need to.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Fixing a toilet's parts rarely needs a permit. The model code skips permits for fixing leaks, but not for replacing valves. So a few places may want one for a new fill valve.

License

You usually need no license to fix your own toilet. In Massachusetts, even a part swap is licensed plumbing work. If you pay someone, hire a licensed plumber. Many states, like Texas and Virginia, require one even for small paid jobs.

Skill and tools

Easy: new flapper or fill valve kit, sponge, towel, adjustable wrench

Before you hire, ask

Is the problem the flapper, the fill valve, or something else?
Are you licensed for plumbing, if my state requires it?
Will you check the shutoff valve behind the toilet too?

Sources: Fix a Leak Week (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, WaterSense); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 1 (Sections R105.1 and R105.2) (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 27 Plumbing Fixtures (Sections P2712.3 and P2712.6) (International Code Council); Plumbers and gas fitters consumer fact sheet (Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters); Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1301, Plumbers (Sections 1301.002, 1301.051, and 1301.351) (Texas Legislature); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1128, Definitions (tradesmen and gas fitters) (Virginia General Assembly); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1129, Necessity for licensure (Virginia General Assembly). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace a toiletIt depends

It depends on one question. A same-spot swap uses the pipes you already have. Moving a toilet means new drain and water pipes. That is licensed plumbing work that usually needs a permit.

Will the new toilet sit in the same spot, on the same floor drain?

Yes: DIY. With a helper, a new wax ring, and the maker's steps, many homeowners can swap a toilet. Some states, like Massachusetts, require a licensed plumber even for this.
No: Pro. Moving a toilet means moving drain and water pipes. Hire a licensed plumber. This usually needs a permit.

Stop: if the floor by the toilet feels soft, the new toilet rocks, or the flange (the ring on the floor pipe) is cracked.

Permit

Sometimes needs a permit. Rules differ: New York City needs no permit for a same-spot swap, but some other places do.

License

You usually need no license to swap your own toilet in the same spot. Some states, like Massachusetts, allow only licensed plumbers to do it. If you pay someone, hire a licensed plumber.

Skill and tools

Some skill: new wax ring and floor bolts, adjustable wrench, putty knife, level, bucket, sponge, a helper

Safety

A toilet is heavy, and the china can crack or cut you. Lift it with a helper.
Tighten the floor bolts a little at a time. Too much force can crack the base.
Some vinyl floor tiles contain asbestos. Don't sand or scrape the floor around the toilet.

Before you hire, ask

Will you check the floor and the flange once the old toilet is off?
Are you licensed for plumbing, if my state requires it?
Will you take away the old toilet?

In Florida: You can pull and reset the same toilet with no permit. Florida's no-permit list does not cover a new toilet, so ask your building department. If a permit is needed, a handyman can't do the job for pay. (Fla. Bldg. Code, Building § 105.2 (Plumbing item 2) (8th ed. 2023); Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G4-12.011(2))

Sources: 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 1 (Sections R105.1 and R105.2) (International Code Council); Plumbing Permits (New York City Department of Buildings); When is a Plumbing Permit Required? (County of Santa Cruz, California, Planning Department); Plumbers and gas fitters consumer fact sheet (Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters); Installation and Care Guide, Dual Flush Two-Piece Toilet (Kohler, toilet maker); How to Repair a Toilet Flange (Oatey, plumbing parts maker); Learn About Asbestos (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Protect Your Family from Exposures to Asbestos (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency). Checked September 28, 2026.

Unclog a sink or tub drainDIY

You can likely do this yourself. When only one sink or tub is slow, the clog is usually in that drain, often in the curved trap under it. A city home-care guide says to try a plunger, then a hand snake, then clean the trap.

Stop: if more than one drain is clogged, or water backs up in one drain when you use another. That points to the main sewer line.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Clearing a clog is on the model code's no-permit list, but local rules can differ.

License

You need no license to clear your own drain. If you pay someone, rules vary by state. Florida, for one, needs no license for drain cleaning.

Skill and tools

Easy: cup plunger, small hand drain snake, bucket, rubber gloves

Safety

Try a plunger and a hand snake first. Harsh chemical openers can burn you and can harm pipes.
Never pour a chemical opener into a drain that is fully blocked. It can splash back and burn your skin or eyes.
Never plunge a drain during or after using a chemical opener. If it is still clogged, tell the plumber what you used.
If you do use one, wear goggles and rubber gloves, and follow the label.
Keep drain cleaners away from children. Swallowing them can cause deadly burns.

Before you hire, ask

Is the clog only in this drain, or deeper in the line?
Will you use a snake instead of harsh chemicals?
What happens if the snake doesn't clear it?

In Florida: Florida doesn't require a license for drain cleaning, and clearing a clog doesn't need a permit. (Fla. Stat. § 489.105(3)(m) (2026); Fla. Bldg. Code, Building § 105.2 (Plumbing item 2) (8th ed. 2023))

Sources: 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 1 (Sections R105.1 and R105.2) (International Code Council); The City of Apache Junction Home Maintenance Manual (City of Apache Junction, Arizona); Frequently Asked Questions (water and sewer) (Seminole County, Florida, Utilities); FAQ (City of Newark, New Jersey, Department of Water and Sewer Utilities); Drain cleaner poisoning (MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine); What's in drain cleaner and what happens if you drink it? (National Capital Poison Center); Drano Max Gel Clog Remover (product label directions) (SC Johnson, drain cleaner maker); Florida Statutes 489.105, Definitions (plumbing contractor) (Florida Legislature). Checked September 28, 2026.

Fix a dripping faucetDIY

You can likely do this yourself. Worn washers and seals inside the faucet often cause drips. Swapping the worn part takes basic tools, and the model code needs no permit to fix a leak.

Stop: if the valves under the sink won't fully close, or water leaks from the wall or pipes, not the faucet.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Fixing a leak in a faucet is on the model code's no-permit list, but local rules can differ.

License

You usually need no license to fix your own faucet. If you pay someone, hire a licensed plumber. Many states, like Texas and Virginia, require one even for small paid jobs. In Massachusetts, even a part swap is licensed plumbing work.

Skill and tools

Easy: screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench, and the new washer, seal, or cartridge that fits

Safety

Shut off the water under the sink first. If there are no valves there, shut off the main water.

Before you hire, ask

Can you repair it, or does the whole faucet need to be replaced?
Are you licensed for plumbing, if my state requires it?
Will you check the shutoff valves under the sink too?

In Florida: Fixing a leaky faucet needs no permit in Florida. That holds only if you don't replace or move valves, pipes, or fixtures. (Fla. Bldg. Code, Building § 105.2 (Plumbing item 2) (8th ed. 2023))

Sources: Fix a Leak Week (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, WaterSense); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 1 (Sections R105.1 and R105.2) (International Code Council); Plumbers and gas fitters consumer fact sheet (Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters); Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1301, Plumbers (Sections 1301.002, 1301.051, and 1301.351) (Texas Legislature); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1128, Definitions (tradesmen and gas fitters) (Virginia General Assembly); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1129, Necessity for licensure (Virginia General Assembly). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace a kitchen or bathroom faucetDIY

You can likely do this yourself. Swapping a faucet in the same sink holes takes basic tools and the maker's steps. Check under the sink for drips right after, and again the next day. Some places need a permit or a licensed plumber, so check local rules.

Stop: if the valves under the sink won't fully close or start to leak, or a pipe bends or cracks.

Permit

Sometimes needs a permit. Some cities, like New York City, need no permit for a direct faucet swap. Others do, so check with your building department.

License

You usually need no license to swap your own faucet. In Massachusetts, only licensed plumbers may replace one. If you pay someone, hire a licensed plumber. Many states, like Texas and Virginia, require one even for small paid jobs.

Skill and tools

Some skill: an adjustable wrench, a basin wrench, a bucket, a towel, and a flashlight

Safety

Buy a faucet labeled lead-free and certified for drinking water. Look for NSF 61 on the box. Federal law requires faucets that supply drinking water to be lead-free.

Before you hire, ask

Will you replace the shutoff valves and supply lines if they are old?
Is the new faucet certified lead-free for drinking water?
Are you licensed for plumbing, if my state requires it?

In Florida: Florida's permit-free list covers fixing leaks, not replacing valves or fixtures. Ask your building department whether a faucet swap needs a permit where you live. (Fla. Bldg. Code, Building § 105.2 (Plumbing item 2) (8th ed. 2023))

Sources: 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 1 (Sections R105.1 and R105.2) (International Code Council); Plumbing Permits (New York City Department of Buildings); When is a Plumbing Permit Required? (County of Santa Cruz, California, Planning Department); Plumbers and gas fitters consumer fact sheet (Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters); Use of Lead Free Pipes, Fittings, Fixtures, Solder and Flux for Drinking Water (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 27 Plumbing Fixtures (Section P2722.1) (International Code Council); Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1301, Plumbers (Sections 1301.002, 1301.051, and 1301.351) (Texas Legislature); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1128, Definitions (tradesmen and gas fitters) (Virginia General Assembly); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1129, Necessity for licensure (Virginia General Assembly). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace a garbage disposalIt depends

It depends on one question. Disposal makers walk owners through swapping a plug-in unit. A disposal wired into the house wiring is electrical work. That part is a job for a licensed electrician.

Does your old disposal plug into an outlet under the sink?

Yes: DIY. Turn off the breaker and unplug it first. Follow the maker's steps. If the new unit has no cord, use the cord kit its maker names, with the unit unplugged. If your dishwasher drains into it, knock out the plug in the dishwasher inlet.
No: Pro. A disposal wired into the wall connects to your home's wiring. Hire a licensed electrician for the wiring part, or a pro who does both parts.

Stop: if the old disposal is wired into the wall. Also stop if the test run shows leaks at the sink, drain, or dishwasher hose.

Permit

Sometimes needs a permit. The model code's no-permit list does not clearly cover a disposal swap. Cities differ, so ask your building department.

License

You usually need no license to swap your own plug-in disposal. If you pay someone, hire a licensed plumber. Paid wiring work usually needs a licensed electrician.

Skill and tools

Some skill: a screwdriver, a wrench, a hammer with a punch or wood dowel, and plumber's putty. Time: About an hour for a plug-in unit, per one maker's guide

Safety

Humming or stopped working? Turn the switch off first. Follow the maker's steps to free a jam from below. Then press the reset button, usually on the bottom, and check the breaker. Try that before you replace it.
Turn off the breaker and unplug the old unit before you start.
Never put your hand inside the disposal. Use tongs or pliers to pull out the knockout plug.
Run water and check every joint for leaks before you turn the power back on.

Before you hire, ask

Is my disposal plugged in or wired in, and who will do any wiring?
Will you test for leaks at the sink, the drain, and the dishwasher hose?
Will you take the old unit away?

In Florida: If the disposal is wired in, the wiring part is electrical work. Florida has no small-job exception for paid electrical work. Hire a licensed electrician for that part. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.503, 489.505(9) (2026))

Sources: How to Install a Garbage Disposal (Moen, faucet and disposal maker); Installing a Replacement Garbage Disposal (InSinkErator, disposal maker); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 27 Plumbing Fixtures (Sections P2716 and P2717.2) (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 1 (Sections R105.1 and R105.2) (International Code Council); Massachusetts law about home improvement (Massachusetts Trial Court Law Libraries); Electricians: Occupational Outlook Handbook (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics); Plumbers and gas fitters consumer fact sheet (Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters); Fixing a Jammed Garbage Disposal (InSinkErator, disposal maker). Checked September 28, 2026.

Drain and flush a water heaterDIY

You can likely do this yourself. Draining water from the tank's drain valve clears out sediment (grit) that makes the heater work harder. One heater maker gives homeowner steps. The Department of Energy suggests draining a little water every few months. Another maker lists it as a job for a service tech, so follow your heater's manual.

Stop: if the drain valve won't close or keeps dripping, water won't drain, or the relief valve on top leaks. Also stop if the tank itself leaks. If you smell gas, leave and call the gas company from outside.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Draining a tank is upkeep. The model code needs no permit for it, but local rules can differ.

License

You usually need no license to flush your own water heater. If you pay someone, hire a licensed plumber. Many states, like Texas and Virginia, require one even for small paid jobs.

Skill and tools

Some skill: garden hose, bucket, thick gloves, safety goggles

Safety

The water can be hot enough to burn. Turn the heater off a few hours ahead, and wear thick gloves and goggles.
Run the hose to a floor drain or outside, away from people and pets.
Don't turn the heater back on until the tank is full of water again.
Gas heater? Relight it only the way its label or manual shows.

Before you hire, ask

Will you check the drain valve and the relief valve while you are here?
If the drain valve is clogged or leaks, can you replace it?
Will you check the anode rod (the metal rod that helps stop rust)?

Sources: Energy Saver Guide (2022), Water Heating section (U.S. Department of Energy); How to Drain & Flush a Water Heater (A. O. Smith, water heater maker); Installation and Operation Manual, Gas-Fired Water Heater (238-51007-00, rev. 07/26) (Bradford White, water heater maker); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 28 Water Heaters (Section P2801.1) (International Code Council); Plumbers and gas fitters consumer fact sheet (Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters); Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1301, Plumbers (Sections 1301.002, 1301.051, and 1301.351) (Texas Legislature); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1128, Definitions (tradesmen and gas fitters) (Virginia General Assembly); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1129, Necessity for licensure (Virginia General Assembly); Natural Gas Leaks (Southern California Gas Company, gas utility). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace a water heaterPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. A water heater has gas or electric hookups and a relief valve that keeps the tank from bursting. Gas models also need a vent. It usually needs a permit. Mistakes can cause burns, fire, carbon monoxide, or an explosion.

Stop: before you touch the gas line, vent pipe, wiring, or relief valve. If you smell gas, leave now and call the gas company from outside.

Permit

Usually needs a permit. Many cities require a plumbing permit to replace a water heater. Some also require a gas or electrical permit. Rules vary by city.

License

Usually a licensed plumber. Some places also license gas fitters for gas models. Some cities let homeowners do it with a permit and inspection.

Skill and tools

Hard: plumbing, gas, and venting tools (a pro job)

Safety

The relief valve and its drain pipe must be installed right. If not, the tank can explode.
Gas water heaters must vent outside. A bad vent can leak carbon monoxide.

Before you hire, ask

Will you get the permit and set up the inspection?
Are you licensed for plumbing, and for gas if it is a gas heater?
Will you add the parts my area requires, like an expansion tank or earthquake straps?

In Florida: A new water heater is not on Florida's no-permit list. A paid swap is licensed plumbing work. Gas company workers and licensed propane dealers or installers may also unhook and reconnect its water lines when they service or replace it. (Fla. Bldg. Code, Building §§ 105.1–105.2 (8th ed. 2023); Fla. Stat. § 489.105(3)(m) (2026))

Sources: 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 1 (Sections R105.1 and R105.2) (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 28 Water Heaters (Sections P2801 and P2804) (International Code Council); Installation and Operation Manual, Gas-Fired Water Heater (238-51007-00, rev. 07/26) (Bradford White, water heater maker); Plumbers and gas fitters consumer fact sheet (Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters); Carbon Monoxide Questions and Answers (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Water Heater Permitting Guide (City of Bend, Oregon); When is a Plumbing Permit Required? (County of Santa Cruz, California, Planning Department). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace the main water shutoff valvePro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. This valve controls water to the whole house. Replacing it means shutting off water at the street or meter, and some utilities let only their own crews do that. It is plumbing work that usually needs a permit.

Stop: if the main valve is stuck, leaking, or broken, don't force it. Call your water utility to shut off water at the meter or street, then call a plumber.

Permit

Usually needs a permit. Replacing a valve is not on the model code's no-permit list. So many places require a plumbing permit, but rules vary by city.

License

Usually a licensed plumber. Your water utility may need to shut off the water at the meter or street.

Skill and tools

Hard: pipe cutting and joining tools (a pro job)

Safety

Learn now how water gets shut off at your meter in an emergency. Some utilities let only their crews turn that valve.
If water is spraying or pooling near outlets or the electrical panel, stay away. Never touch a switch or cord while standing in water.

Before you hire, ask

Will you set up the water shutoff with the utility?
Will the new valve be a full-open type, like a ball valve?
Will you get a permit if my city requires one?

In Florida: Florida's no-permit list does not include a new valve, so ask if you need a permit. If you do, a handyman can't do the job for pay. Hire a licensed plumber. (Fla. Bldg. Code, Building § 105.2 (Plumbing item 2) (8th ed. 2023); Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G4-12.011(2))

Sources: 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 29 Water Supply and Distribution (Section P2903.10.1) (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 1 (Sections R105.1 and R105.2) (International Code Council); How to Shut Off Your Water (Seattle Public Utilities); House Main Line Dos & Don'ts (City of Monterey Park, California, Water Utility Division); Guidelines for Cleaning Safely After a Disaster (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Checked September 28, 2026.

Clear a main sewer line backupPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. A main-line clog blocks every drain, and sewage can come up in the lowest drain. If only one drain or toilet is backed up, the problem is usually in that fixture. Clearing a main line takes a long power snake or water jet. Many cities will check the public sewer first; the pipe from your house is usually yours to have cleared.

Stop: as soon as sewage comes up in a drain. Stop running water and flushing, keep kids and pets away, and call your sewer utility and a plumber. On a septic tank, call a septic service instead of the utility.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Clearing a clog needs no permit under the model code. Replacing a broken sewer pipe usually does. Rules vary by city.

License

Usually a licensed plumber or a drain cleaning company. In many places, fixing or replacing the pipe is work for a licensed plumber.

Skill and tools

Hard: a power drain snake or water jetter and a sewer camera (pro tools)

Safety

Sewage carries germs. Stay out of it. If you must go near it, wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles, and wash with soap and water after.
If water or sewage reaches outlets, cords, or appliances, stay out of it. Turn off power at the main breaker only if the panel is dry and you can reach it without standing in water. If you can't, call an electrician.
Don't pour chemical drain openers into a backed-up line.
Keep children and pets away until cleanup is done.

Before you hire, ask

Can you run a camera and show me where the clog is and whose pipe it is in?
If the pipe is broken, will you get the permit for the repair?
Are you licensed and insured for sewer work?

In Florida: Clearing a sewer clog needs no license or permit in Florida. Digging up or replacing the sewer pipe is licensed plumbing work. Whoever digs must contact 811, the call-before-you-dig line, at least 2 full business days ahead. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.105(3)(m), 556.105(1)(a) (2026); Fla. Bldg. Code, Building § 105.2 (Plumbing item 2) (8th ed. 2023))

Sources: FAQ (City of Newark, New Jersey, Department of Water and Sewer Utilities); My Sewer Service (City of Roseville, Minnesota); Sewage Backup Information (City of Annapolis, Maryland); Frequently Asked Questions (water and sewer) (Seminole County, Florida, Utilities); Guidelines for Cleaning Safely After a Disaster (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 1 (Sections R105.1 and R105.2) (International Code Council); The City of Apache Junction Home Maintenance Manual (City of Apache Junction, Arizona); Floods (Ready.gov, U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency); Resolving Septic System Malfunctions (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency). Checked September 28, 2026.

Appliances and gas hookups

Clean the dryer ventIt depends

It depends on one question. Not cleaning is the leading cause of home dryer fires. You can clean the parts you can reach without moving the dryer. A full duct cleaning means moving the dryer, and sometimes ladder or roof work where a fall can badly hurt you. Hire that out.

Can you reach every part that needs cleaning without moving the dryer or using a ladder?

Yes: DIY. Clean the lint filter before and after each load. With the dryer off, clear lint from the outside vent hood if you can reach it from the ground. Look over the duct you can see for crushing or tears. Don't pull the dryer out to reach more.
No: Handyman. Hire a dryer vent cleaning service or a handyman to clean the full duct. Gas dryer? Tell them before anyone moves it. Moving it can crack an old gas hose. Have a plumber or heating pro check or replace the hose.

Stop: if you smell gas, leave and call the gas company from outside. Stop using the dryer if you smell burning, see scorch marks, or it gets very hot. Also stop if a duct is crushed or torn, or you'd have to move the dryer or climb to reach it.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Cleaning is upkeep and needs no permit. Replacing or rerouting the duct may need one in some places.

License

You need no license to clean your own dryer vent. If you hire a vent cleaning service, ask if they are insured. Work on a gas hose is for a qualified gas pro.

Skill and tools

Easy: Vacuum with a hose attachment, soft brush, flashlight

Safety

Never run the dryer without its lint filter.
Use metal duct. Plastic or foil accordion duct traps lint and crushes easily.
Never put a screen over the outside vent hood. Lint clogs it.
Gas dryer? Don't move it yourself. Moving it even a little can crack an old gas hose and leak gas. If you smell gas, leave and call the gas company from outside.

Before you hire, ask

Will you clean the whole duct, from the dryer to the outside hood?
Will you tell me if my duct is plastic, foil, crushed, or too long?
If my dryer runs on gas, who will check the gas hose if it has to be moved?

Sources: Appliance and electrical fire safety (U.S. Fire Administration, FEMA); Clothes Dryer Fire Safety (flyer) (U.S. Fire Administration, FEMA); Overheated Clothes Dryers Can Cause Fires (Publication 5022) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 15 Exhaust Systems (Section M1502) (International Code Council); Appliance Connectors (Nicor Gas, gas utility); Occupational Ladder Fall Injuries, United States, 2011 (MMWR) (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention); CPSC Warns About Dangerous Flexible Gas Connectors Used on Home Appliances (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Replace Your Gas Appliance Connectors (Unitil, gas utility); Natural Gas Leaks (Southern California Gas Company, gas utility). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace a dishwasherIt depends

It depends on one question. Many homeowners can swap a dishwasher with a helper. The water valve, drain, and outlet must already be there. If a hookup is missing, or the old unit is wired into the wall, you need a plumber or electrician.

Is there already a working water valve, a drain hookup, and an outlet the new cord can reach?

Yes: DIY. With a helper and the maker's steps, many homeowners can do this. One maker says you should have some plumbing and wiring skill. If it's your first time, you may want a pro for the hookups. If the new unit has no cord, use the maker's cord kit with the power off.
No: Pro. Adding a valve, an outlet, or wiring is plumbing or electrical work. Hire a licensed plumber or electrician.

Stop: if the sink valve won't close or leaks, the old unit is wired into the wall, or the floor under it is wet.

Permit

Sometimes needs a permit. A same-spot swap is not clearly on the model code's no-permit list. New wiring or pipes usually need a permit. Rules vary by city.

License

You usually need no license to swap your own dishwasher on the hookups you have. If you pay someone for the hookups, hire a licensed plumber or electrician. Some state and local codes require one.

Skill and tools

Some skill: screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench, pliers, a level, a drill, and a helper. Time: At least two hours, longer when removing an old unit, per one maker's guide

Safety

Turn off the breaker and close the water valve before you start.
Some places, like California, require an air gap fitting on the sink for the drain hose. Where that isn't required, fasten the hose in a high loop under the counter. Both keep dirty water from flowing back in.
Get a helper. You will need to tilt and lift the dishwasher.

Before you hire, ask

Will you use a new water line and check for leaks during a test run?
Will you set up the drain hose the way my local code requires?
If wiring or a new valve is needed, who does it, and are they licensed?

In Florida: If the job needs new wiring or a new circuit, that part is electrical work. Florida has no small-job exception for paid electrical work. Hire a licensed electrician for it. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.503, 489.505(9) (2026))

Sources: How to Install a Dishwasher: A Step-by-Step Guide (Whirlpool, appliance maker); Appliance Delivery, Installation & Removal (GE Appliances, appliance maker); Dishwasher Water Supply Connection (Whirlpool Product Help); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 27 Plumbing Fixtures (Section P2717) (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 1 (Sections R105.1 and R105.2) (International Code Council); Massachusetts law about home improvement (Massachusetts Trial Court Law Libraries); California Plumbing Code 807.3, Domestic Dishwashing Machine (building handout) (Town of Paradise, California). Checked September 28, 2026.

Hook up a gas stove or gas dryerPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. A bad gas hookup can leak and cause a fire, an explosion, or carbon monoxide. Many states, like Florida, Virginia, and Arizona, require a licensed pro for paid gas work. Gas companies warn that old gas hoses can crack when an appliance is moved.

Stop: before you loosen, tighten, or connect any gas fitting or valve. If you smell gas or hear hissing, leave right away. Don't flip switches or use a phone inside. Call the gas company or 911 from outside.

Permit

Sometimes needs a permit. The model code skips permits only for portable gas appliances and small part swaps. Some places require a permit for any hookup, so check locally.

License

Many states and cities require a license for paid gas work. Florida, Virginia, and Arizona do. Some gas companies also name heating pros or appliance repair techs for gas hose work. Check who may do gas work where you live.

Skill and tools

Hard: new gas connector and leak-test solution (a pro job)

Safety

Don't move an older gas appliance to look at its hose. Old hoses can crack and leak.
A range needs its anti-tip bracket. A tipping range can badly hurt a child.
Keep working carbon monoxide alarms. Gas appliances can make this deadly gas.

Before you hire, ask

Are you licensed for gas work here, and will you get a permit if one is needed?
Will you use a new gas connector and test every joint for leaks?
Will you install the range's anti-tip bracket?

In Florida: Paid gas pipe work in Florida is licensed plumbing or mechanical work. Propane companies must hold a state license and show it before they start. If your propane equipment is changed in any way, tell your propane dealer before its next fill or service. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.105(3)(i), (m), 527.02(1), 527.067(1), (3) (2026))

Sources: 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 24 Fuel Gas (Sections G2417.6, G2420.5, and G2422) (International Code Council); CPSC Warns About Dangerous Flexible Gas Connectors Used on Home Appliances (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Appliance Connectors (Nicor Gas, gas utility); Replace Your Gas Appliance Connectors (Unitil, gas utility); Natural Gas Leaks (Southern California Gas Company, gas utility); Range Tipover Safety Alert (Publication 5007) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Carbon Monoxide Questions and Answers (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Appliance Delivery, Installation & Removal (GE Appliances, appliance maker); Gas Dryer Installation: A How-To Guide (Whirlpool, appliance maker); Plumbers and gas fitters consumer fact sheet (Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters); Florida Statutes 489.105, Definitions (plumbing contractor) (Florida Legislature); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1128, Definitions (tradesmen and gas fitters) (Virginia General Assembly); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1129, Necessity for licensure (Virginia General Assembly); Arizona Revised Statutes 32-1121, Persons not required to be licensed (Arizona Legislature). Checked September 28, 2026.

Hook up a fridge water line or ice makerIt depends

It depends on one question. Hooking the fridge up to a valve that is already there is a simple job. Adding a new valve means cutting into a water pipe, which is plumbing work. The clamp-on saddle valves in some kits are banned by the model code.

Is there already a water shutoff valve for the fridge within about 6 feet, on the same floor?

Yes: DIY. Use a new water line, not the old one, and follow the fridge maker's steps. Check the fittings for drips once the water is on.
No: Pro. Adding a valve means cutting into a water pipe. Hire a plumber, and skip clamp-on saddle valves.

Stop: if the valve won't fully close, or a fitting still drips after gentle tightening. Also stop if the only way to get water is to cut into a pipe or clamp onto one.

Permit

Sometimes needs a permit. Using a valve that is already there is minor work. Adding a valve or pipe is not on the model code's no-permit list. Rules vary by city.

License

Hooking up to a valve that is already there usually needs no license. Adding a new valve is plumbing work. If you pay someone to add one, hire a licensed plumber.

Skill and tools

Easy: adjustable wrench, new water line (copper, PEX, or the maker's kit), towel

Safety

Unplug the fridge before you pull it out. Check behind it for drips again the next day.
Don't use a clamp-on saddle valve. The model code bans them, and fridge makers say they clog and cut water flow.

Before you hire, ask

Will you install a real shutoff valve, not a saddle valve?
What kind of water line will you use, and where will it run?
Will you check both ends for leaks?

Sources: Appliance Delivery, Installation & Removal (GE Appliances, appliance maker); How to Check the Water Supply Line (refrigerators) (Whirlpool Product Help); Refrigerator - Self-Tapping Water Valve (GE Appliances, appliance maker); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 29 Water Supply and Distribution (Section P2906.6.1) (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Chapter 1 (Sections R105.1 and R105.2) (International Code Council); Plumbers and gas fitters consumer fact sheet (Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters); Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1301, Plumbers (Sections 1301.002, 1301.051, and 1301.351) (Texas Legislature). Checked September 28, 2026.

Electrical

Reset a tripped breakerIt depends

It depends on one question. A breaker is a safety switch. It cuts power when a circuit has too much load or a fault. Power companies give owners steps to reset one after a single trip. A reset does not fix the cause.

Did the breaker trip just this once?

Yes: DIY. Turn off or unplug what was running on that circuit, if plugs, hands, and floor are dry. If a plug is hot or burned, don't touch it. Leave the breaker off and call an electrician. Otherwise, push the breaker fully off and back on, as your power company's steps show. If it trips again, leave it off.
No: Pro. Leave it off, and don't keep resetting it. Have a licensed electrician find the cause.

Stop: if you see smoke or fire, get out and call 911. Also stop if the panel is wet, hot, buzzing, sparking, or scorched, you smell burning, or you would stand in water to reach it. Stay away and call an electrician. No tripped breaker? Find an outlet with TEST and RESET buttons, often near a sink or tub, in the garage, or outside. Press RESET. If power is still off, call your power company.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. No permit is needed to switch a breaker back on. Swapping a breaker is still a job for an electrician.

License

You need no license to reset your own breaker. If you pay someone, it usually needs to be a licensed electrician. Many states, like Florida, have no small-job exception.

Skill and tools

Easy: None; a flashlight helps

Safety

Open only the panel door. Never take off the inner cover.
Never put in a bigger breaker to stop trips.
If it's the air conditioner's breaker, wait five minutes before you reset it.
If lights stay dim or very bright, turn off big appliances and call your power company.

Before you hire, ask

What made it trip: an appliance, too much on one circuit, or the wiring?
Does this circuit need to be split up or have a new circuit added?
Are you licensed and insured, and will this need a permit?

Sources: Keeping your electric service reliable (power outage guide) (Florida Power & Light); How do I reset my circuit breaker? (Pacific Gas and Electric Company); CPSC Guide to Home Wiring Hazards (Publication 518) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Branch circuit breaker installation instructions (Leviton Manufacturing, breaker maker); Electricians: Occupational Outlook Handbook (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics); Guidelines for Cleaning Safely After a Disaster (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention); Florida Statutes 489.503, Exemptions (Florida Legislature); Florida Statutes 489.505, Definitions (electrical contracting) (Florida Legislature); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1128, Definitions (tradesmen and gas fitters) (Virginia General Assembly); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1129, Necessity for licensure (Virginia General Assembly); Massachusetts law about home improvement (Massachusetts Trial Court Law Libraries); Don't Let Your World Go Up in Smoke (home fire protection handout) (U.S. Fire Administration, FEMA). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace a light fixtureIt depends

It depends on one question. Swapping a light on the same box is a common owner job. But you are working on house wiring. The light's instructions say to turn off the breaker first and to consult an electrician.

Have you done basic home wiring before, like swapping a light or an outlet?

Yes: DIY. Do it yourself if your local rules let owners do their own electrical work. Turn off the breaker, test that the wires are dead, and follow the fixture's instructions.
No: Pro. Hire a licensed electrician. The light's own instructions say to consult an electrician.

Stop: if your tester still shows power, the box is loose, or you see aluminum wire, cracked wire covering, or scorch marks. Call a licensed electrician.

Permit

Sometimes needs a permit. The model building code lets you change bulbs without a permit, but it does not list whole fixtures, so some places want a permit. Check with your local building department.

License

Some places let owners do their own electrical work at home, often with a permit. Others, like New York City, require a licensed electrician even to swap a light. If you pay someone, it usually needs to be a licensed electrician. Many states, like Florida, have no small-job exception.

Skill and tools

Some skill: A voltage tester, screwdrivers, wire strippers, and a ladder

Safety

Turn off the breaker, not just the wall switch, and test before you touch wires.
Outdoors and in other damp or wet spots, use a fixture marked for damp or wet locations.
On a ladder, keep three points of contact and do not stand on the top step.
Some ceiling texture contains asbestos. Don't sand, scrape, or drill it.

Before you hire, ask

Are you licensed for electrical work here, and do I need a permit?
Can my ceiling box hold this light's weight?
Is my wiring copper or aluminum, and does that change the parts you will use?

In Florida: Swapping a light fixture for pay is electrical work in Florida. There is no small-job exception, so a handyman needs an electrical license. You may do it yourself in your own home, but permit rules still apply. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.503(6), 489.505(9) (2026); Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G6-7.001(1))

Sources: 3-light vanity with LED downlight: Use and Care Guide (Home Decorators Collection, fixture maker); 2024 International Residential Code, R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, E3905.6 Boxes at luminaire outlets (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, E4003.9 Wet or damp locations (International Code Council); Weather Resistant Single Pole Switch installation instructions (Leviton Manufacturing, device maker); Repairing Aluminum Wiring (Publication 516) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Portable Ladder Safety QuickCard (U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration); Project Requirements for Owner: Electrical Systems (New York City Department of Buildings); Florida Statutes 489.503, Exemptions (Florida Legislature); Electricians: Occupational Outlook Handbook (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics); CPSC Guide to Home Wiring Hazards (Publication 518) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Learn About Asbestos (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Protect Your Family from Exposures to Asbestos (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Florida Statutes 489.505, Definitions (electrical contracting) (Florida Legislature); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1128, Definitions (tradesmen and gas fitters) (Virginia General Assembly); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1129, Necessity for licensure (Virginia General Assembly); Massachusetts law about home improvement (Massachusetts Trial Court Law Libraries). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace an outlet or light switchIt depends

It depends on one question. Swapping an outlet or switch for the same kind is a small job, but you are working on house wiring. Makers say to turn off the breaker, test that the power is off, and call an electrician if you are unsure.

Have you done basic home wiring before, like swapping an outlet or a switch?

Yes: DIY. Do it yourself if your local rules let owners do their own electrical work. Turn off the breaker, test that the power is off, and use the same type and rating as the old one.
No: Pro. Hire a licensed electrician. The makers say to call an electrician if you are unsure about any step.

Stop: for smoke, flames, or active sparks, get out and call 911. Also stop if the outlet or switch feels warm, buzzes, smells burned, or gave you a shock. Stop if your tester still shows power, the wires are aluminum, or you see scorch marks, melted plastic, or cracked wire covering. And stop if there is no ground wire and you want a regular three-prong outlet. Call a licensed electrician.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. The model code lets you put an outlet back in the same box without a permit, but not add a new one. Switch swaps may count as minor repairs. Some cities are stricter, so check locally.

License

Some places let owners do their own electrical work at home. Others, like New York City, require a licensed electrician even for small jobs. If you pay someone, it usually needs to be a licensed electrician. Many states, like Florida, have no small-job exception.

Skill and tools

Some skill: A voltage tester, screwdrivers, needle-nose pliers, and wire strippers

Safety

Turn off the breaker and test that the power is off before you touch wires.
Many outlets and switches are for copper wire only. Aluminum wire needs special parts and an electrician.
Old two-slot outlets often have no ground wire. Don't swap one for a regular three-prong outlet. A GFCI outlet can go there. Put on the "No equipment ground" label that comes with it.
Near water, the new outlet may need to be a GFCI type. That is the kind with TEST and RESET buttons. Ask about it in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, laundry areas, unfinished basements, and outdoors.

Before you hire, ask

Are you licensed and insured for electrical work here?
Should any of these outlets be GFCI or tamper-resistant?
Are my wires copper or aluminum?

In Florida: Replacing an outlet or switch for pay is electrical work in Florida. There is no small-job exception, so a handyman needs an electrical license. You may do it yourself in your own home, but permit rules still apply. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.503, 489.505(9) (2026))

Sources: Tamper-Resistant Outlet (Cat. No. E5325) installation instructions (Leviton Manufacturing, device maker); Weather Resistant Single Pole Switch installation instructions (Leviton Manufacturing, device maker); 2024 International Residential Code, R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); Repairing Aluminum Wiring (Publication 516) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); CPSC Guide to Home Wiring Hazards (Publication 518) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); GFCI Fact Sheet (Publication 099) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Project Requirements for Owner: Electrical Systems (New York City Department of Buildings); Florida Statutes 489.503, Exemptions (Florida Legislature); Electricians: Occupational Outlook Handbook (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics); What is a non-grounding outlet? (Leviton Manufacturing, device maker); Florida Statutes 489.505, Definitions (electrical contracting) (Florida Legislature); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1128, Definitions (tradesmen and gas fitters) (Virginia General Assembly); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1129, Necessity for licensure (Virginia General Assembly); Massachusetts law about home improvement (Massachusetts Trial Court Law Libraries); Don't Let Your World Go Up in Smoke (home fire protection handout) (U.S. Fire Administration, FEMA). Checked September 28, 2026.

Add GFCI protection to an outletIt depends

It depends on one question. A GFCI outlet has TEST and RESET buttons. It cuts power fast to help prevent shocks. The Consumer Product Safety Commission says homeowners with enough skill can put one in by following its steps. When in doubt, it says to call an electrician. The maker warns it is harder than a regular outlet, and a wrong hookup can leave you unprotected.

Have you wired outlets before?

Yes: DIY. You can swap one outlet for a GFCI outlet if your local rules let owners do their own electrical work. Read the wiring diagram, follow the LINE and LOAD steps, then test it. A GFCI breaker goes in the panel, which is electrician work.
No: Pro. Hire a licensed electrician. For one tool or an outdoor job, a plug-in GFCI adds protection with no wiring.

Stop: if the power won't shut off, the box has more wires than the instructions allow, the wires are aluminum, or the GFCI fails its test. Call an electrician.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. The model building code lets you replace a plug-in outlet without a permit. A GFCI breaker or new wiring is different, and local rules vary.

License

Skill and tools

Some skill: Voltage tester, screwdrivers, wire strippers, a lamp for testing

Safety

Turn off the breaker and test that the power is off before you touch wires.
Test it after you put it in and once a month: press TEST, then RESET.
If the LINE and LOAD wires are mixed up, it will not reset. Turn the power off before you fix the hookup.
No ground wire in the box? A GFCI outlet can still go there. Put on the "No equipment ground" label that comes with it.
Outdoors or in other damp or wet spots, use a GFCI marked WR, for weather resistant. In wet spots, add a cover that keeps it dry even with a cord plugged in.
Do not put a GFCI on a circuit that runs life-support equipment.

Before you hire, ask

Should this be a GFCI outlet or a GFCI breaker for my home?
Which other outlets will this GFCI protect, and will you test them all?
Are you licensed and insured for electrical work here?

In Florida: Adding GFCI protection for pay is electrical work in Florida. Hire a licensed electrician. The state rule that lets a handyman do small jobs does not cover it. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.103, 489.503, 489.505(9) (2026))

Sources: GFCI Fact Sheet (Publication 099) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Installing and Testing a GFCI Receptacle (GFNL2) (Leviton Manufacturing, GFCI maker); Home Electrical Safety Checklist (Publication 513) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); 2024 International Residential Code, R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); Project Requirements for Owner: Electrical Systems (New York City Department of Buildings); Florida Statutes 489.503, Exemptions (Florida Legislature); Electricians: Occupational Outlook Handbook (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics); Florida Statutes 489.505, Definitions (electrical contracting) (Florida Legislature); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1128, Definitions (tradesmen and gas fitters) (Virginia General Assembly); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1129, Necessity for licensure (Virginia General Assembly); Massachusetts law about home improvement (Massachusetts Trial Court Law Libraries). Checked September 28, 2026.

Put a ceiling fan where a light wasIt depends

It depends on one question. A fan is heavy and it moves. It must hang from the framing or from a box marked for fan support. That mark is inside the box, so you can only check it with the power off and the light down. The fan maker says to use a qualified electrician if you are not familiar with wiring.

Never done home wiring? Don't take the light down. Call an electrician. If you have, turn off the breaker. Test that the wires are dead with a non-contact voltage tester. Then take down the light. Is the box marked for a ceiling fan?

Yes: DIY. If you have done basic home wiring and local rules allow it, you can hang the fan yourself. Check that the fan's weight is within the box's rating. Then follow the fan's instructions.
No: Pro. A regular light box is not made to hold a moving fan. Have a licensed electrician add a fan-rated box or brace. If you can't check the box or find the mark, treat it as a no.

Stop: if you have never done home wiring, get an electrician before you take the light down. Also stop if your tester still shows power, the box is loose, or you find aluminum or damaged wiring.

Permit

Sometimes needs a permit. Putting up a fan is not on the model code's permit-free list, and adding a new box or brace makes a permit more likely. Check with your local building department.

License

Skill and tools

Some skill: A ladder, a screwdriver, pliers, wire strippers, and a non-contact voltage tester

Safety

Turn off the breaker for the ceiling box and the wall switch. Test that the wires are dead with a non-contact voltage tester before you touch them. Check the tester on a working outlet first.
Hang the fan only from a fan-rated box or the framing, using the screws that come with the box.
On a ladder, keep three points of contact and do not stand on the top step.
Some ceiling texture contains asbestos. Don't sand, scrape, or drill it.

Before you hire, ask

Is my ceiling box rated for this fan's weight?
Will you need to add a brace or a new box, and is a permit needed?
Are you licensed and insured for electrical work here?

In Florida: Putting up a ceiling fan for pay is electrical work in Florida. Hire a licensed electrician. New wiring or a new circuit also needs a permit. The small-job permit exemption does not cover electrical work. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.505(9), 553.79(1)(g) (2026); Fla. Bldg. Code, Building §§ 105.1, 105.2.2 (8th ed. 2023))

Sources: 2024 International Residential Code, E3905.8 Boxes at fan outlets (International Code Council); Ceiling fan installation manual (Postman models) (Hunter Fan Company, fan maker); 2024 International Residential Code, R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); Repairing Aluminum Wiring (Publication 516) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Portable Ladder Safety QuickCard (U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration); Project Requirements for Owner: Electrical Systems (New York City Department of Buildings); Florida Statutes 489.503, Exemptions (Florida Legislature); Electricians: Occupational Outlook Handbook (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics); Learn About Asbestos (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Protect Your Family from Exposures to Asbestos (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Florida Statutes 489.505, Definitions (electrical contracting) (Florida Legislature); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1128, Definitions (tradesmen and gas fitters) (Virginia General Assembly); Code of Virginia § 54.1-1129, Necessity for licensure (Virginia General Assembly); Massachusetts law about home improvement (Massachusetts Trial Court Law Libraries); How to Install a Ceiling Fan: Step-by-Step DIY Guide (Hunter Fan Company, fan maker); Non-Contact Voltage Tester (NCVT-1) Owner's Manual (Klein Tools, tool maker). Checked September 28, 2026.

Add a new circuit or outletPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. A new outlet means new wiring, and a new circuit also needs a new breaker in the panel. The model building code requires a permit for this work, and most states license electricians.

Stop: before you open the panel, cut into a wall, or run any new wire. Call a licensed electrician.

Permit

Usually needs a permit. The model code skips permits for putting an outlet back, not for adding one. So new wiring usually needs a permit. Local rules vary.

License

Most states require electricians to be licensed. Some places let owners wire their own homes with a permit and some do not, so check with your local building department.

Skill and tools

Hard: Electrician's tools; none for you

Safety

Do not use extension cords as permanent wiring. Have outlets added where you need them.
Never take off the panel cover. That is electrician work.
A permit for new wiring can also mean you must update your smoke alarms.

Before you hire, ask

Are you licensed and insured, and will you pull the permit?
Does my panel have room and enough power for this circuit?
Will the new wiring need extra shock or fire protection, like GFCI or arc-fault breakers?

In Florida: A new circuit is electrical work. In Florida it needs a permit, and a licensed electrician if you hire it out. Adding wiring is not a minor repair, and the small-job permit exemption does not cover electrical work. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.505(9), 553.79(1)(g) (2026); Fla. Bldg. Code, Building § 105.2.2 (8th ed. 2023))

Sources: 2024 International Residential Code, R105.1 Required (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, E3902.22 AFCI protection for branch circuit extensions or modifications (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, R310.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions (International Code Council); Home Electrical Safety Checklist (Publication 513) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); CPSC Guide to Home Wiring Hazards (Publication 518) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Branch circuit breaker installation instructions (Leviton Manufacturing, breaker maker); Project Requirements for Owner: Electrical Systems (New York City Department of Buildings); Florida Statutes 489.503, Exemptions (Florida Legislature); Electricians: Occupational Outlook Handbook (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics); Qualified Electricians (Electrical Safety Foundation International). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace or upgrade the electrical panelPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. The panel sends power to your whole home. A licensed electrician should replace it, and it usually needs a permit. Some power companies want a passed inspection before they reconnect your meter.

Stop: do not take off the panel cover or touch anything inside it. Call a licensed electrician.

Permit

Usually needs a permit. The model code requires a permit to replace a panel. Local rules vary, but expect a permit and an inspection.

License

Most states license electricians, and panel part makers say an electrician must install their parts. Rules for owners vary by state and city.

Skill and tools

Hard: Electrician's tools; none for you

Safety

Never take off the panel cover yourself.
Heat, burning smells, buzzing, or sparks at the panel mean call an electrician right away.
A permit for this work can also mean updating your smoke alarms to today's rules.

Before you hire, ask

Are you licensed and insured, and will you get the permit and inspection?
Will you set up the power shutoff with the power company?
Will the new panel have room for future needs, like an EV charger?

In Florida: A new panel needs a permit in Florida. If you hire it out, use a licensed electrical contractor. A residential electrical license covers homes of 1 to 4 units, up to 2 stories, with one service of up to 400 amps. (Fla. Stat. § 489.505(9), (12) (2026); Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G6-7.001(3); Fla. Bldg. Code, Building § 105.2.2 (8th ed. 2023))

Sources: 2024 International Residential Code, R105.1 Required (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); CPSC Guide to Home Wiring Hazards (Publication 518) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Branch circuit breaker installation instructions (Leviton Manufacturing, panel equipment maker); Electrical Panel Upgrade (Xcel Energy); Construction and Meter Install (Xcel Energy); 2024 International Residential Code, R310.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions (International Code Council); Project Requirements for Owner: Electrical Systems (New York City Department of Buildings); Florida Statutes 489.503, Exemptions (Florida Legislature); Electricians: Occupational Outlook Handbook (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics); Qualified Electricians (Electrical Safety Foundation International). Checked September 28, 2026.

Install a 240-volt EV chargerPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. A 240-volt (Level 2) electric car (EV) charger needs its own circuit from your panel. Charger makers say a licensed electrician must install it. Permits are often needed. Many drivers do fine charging overnight with the car's own cord on a regular outlet that has its own circuit.

Stop: before any panel work or new wiring, and do not share a dryer's outlet or circuit. Call a licensed electrician.

Permit

Usually needs a permit. The model building code requires a permit for new circuits, and the U.S. Department of Energy says many areas want an install plan approved first. Local rules vary.

License

Most states license electricians. Charger makers say a licensed electrician must put in their units.

Skill and tools

Hard: Electrician's tools; none for you

Safety

Buy a charger certified by a national testing lab.
Each charger needs its own dedicated circuit.
A plug-in charger still needs the right 240-volt outlet on its own circuit. Ask the electrician.
Have the electrician check that your panel has enough room and power.

Before you hire, ask

Does my panel have enough room and power, or will it need an upgrade?
Will you get the permit and the inspection?
What amp setting will you use, and why?

In Florida: A wired-in EV charger or a new 240-volt outlet is electrical work in Florida. Hire a licensed electrician and expect a permit. The small-job permit exemption does not cover electrical work. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.505(9), 553.79(1)(g) (2026); Fla. Bldg. Code, Building §§ 105.1, 105.2.2 (8th ed. 2023))

Sources: Charging Electric Vehicles at Home (U.S. Department of Energy, Alternative Fuels Data Center); Home Flex Installation Guide (ChargePoint, charger maker); Home Flex Installation FAQ (ChargePoint, charger maker); EVSE Instruction Manual (EvoCharge, charger maker); 2024 International Residential Code, R105.1 Required (International Code Council); Electricians: Occupational Outlook Handbook (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Checked September 28, 2026.

Alarms and garage doors

Replace a battery smoke alarmDIY

You can likely do this yourself. A chirp about once a minute usually means the battery is low. A loud, repeating alarm is different: treat it as a fire, get out, and call 911. Battery-only alarms are the simplest kind to put up. You fasten a bracket and attach the alarm, following the maker's steps. Replace any alarm that is 10 years old or fails its test.

Stop: if an alarm is sounding a full alarm (loud and repeating), treat it as a fire. Get everyone out, then call 911 from outside. Also stop if you find wires or a plug behind the old alarm. It is hardwired. You can still change its backup battery the way the maker shows, but replacing it is a job for an electrician.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. No permit is normally needed to put up a battery-only alarm, since no wiring is involved. Local fire and housing rules can differ.

License

No license is needed. Some fire departments will put up battery alarms for free.

Skill and tools

Easy: Step ladder, drill with a small bit, screwdriver, pencil

Safety

For a chirp, put in a new battery right away. Still chirping? The alarm may be at the end of its life, so replace it. A sealed 10-year alarm must be replaced whole. Never leave the battery out.
Test the new alarm with its button, then test it every month.
Put one in each bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level.
On a ladder, keep three points of contact and do not stand on the top step.

Before you hire, ask

What is the made-on date of the new alarms, and when will they need replacing?
Will you put alarms in each bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on each level?
Can the alarms be linked so they all sound together?

In Florida: You need no permit in Florida to put up or replace a battery smoke alarm. If you add or replace one during a small remodel, the new one must have a sealed 10-year battery. Monitored, wireless-linked, and combo smoke and CO alarms are exceptions. (Fla. Stat. §§ 553.793(1)(d), (2), 553.883 (2026))

Sources: Smoke alarms (U.S. Fire Administration, FEMA); Smoke Alarms: Why, Where, and Which? (Publication 559) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Smoke Alarm Model SA340 user's manual (First Alert / BRK Brands, alarm maker); Planning and Implementing a Successful Smoke Alarm Installation Program (National Fire Protection Association); Portable Ladder Safety QuickCard (U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration); 2024 International Residential Code, R105.1 Required (International Code Council); Smoke Alarm user's manual, Models SA300, SA303, and SA305 (battery) (First Alert / BRK Brands, alarm maker); Don't Let Your World Go Up in Smoke (home fire protection handout) (U.S. Fire Administration, FEMA). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace a hardwired smoke alarmPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. A hardwired alarm is tied into your home's wiring. The U.S. Fire Administration says only qualified electricians should put these in. Alarm makers say a licensed electrician must do the wiring.

Stop: if an alarm is sounding a full alarm (loud and repeating), treat it as a fire. Get everyone out, then call 911 from outside. For a chirp, change the backup battery the way the maker shows, then stop. Replacing the alarm or unhooking its wires is a job for an electrician.

Permit

Sometimes needs a permit. Replacing a wired alarm is not on the model code's permit-free list, so some places want a permit. Check with your local building department.

License

Alarm makers say to use a licensed electrician. Most states license them. Local rules vary.

Skill and tools

Hard: Electrician's tools; a step ladder to change the battery

Safety

Test hardwired alarms every month and change the backup battery at least once a year. If it still chirps after a new battery, have the alarm replaced.
Linked alarms only work with compatible models, so match them.
Replace hardwired alarms 10 years from the made-on date.
Don't swap a wired alarm for a battery-only one unless your fire or building office says it's OK.

Before you hire, ask

Will the new alarms work with the other alarms in my home so they all sound together?
Will you test every alarm after you put it in?
Are you licensed, and is a permit needed here?

In Florida: Paid work on a wired alarm needs a license in Florida. Hire an electrical or alarm contractor. During a repair or small remodel, a home may use sealed 10-year battery alarms instead of adding new wired ones. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.505(9), 489.537(9), 553.883 (2026))

Sources: Smoke alarms (U.S. Fire Administration, FEMA); Smoke Alarms user's manual, Model 9120 series (AC and AC/DC) (First Alert / BRK Brands, alarm maker); Planning and Implementing a Successful Smoke Alarm Installation Program (National Fire Protection Association); 2024 International Residential Code, R310.6 Power source (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); Electricians: Occupational Outlook Handbook (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics); Don't Let Your World Go Up in Smoke (home fire protection handout) (U.S. Fire Administration, FEMA). Checked September 28, 2026.

Add a carbon monoxide alarmDIY

You can likely do this yourself. Battery and plug-in carbon monoxide (CO) alarms need no wiring. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says to put one on each level and outside sleeping areas. Follow the maker's steps.

Stop: if any CO alarm goes off, get everyone outside to fresh air and call 911. Also stop if the alarm you picked must be wired into the house. That is electrician work.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. You normally need no permit for a battery or plug-in alarm. Local rules vary. Many states and cities require CO alarms in homes.

License

No license is needed for battery or plug-in alarms. Wired alarms call for a licensed electrician, per their makers.

Skill and tools

Easy: None for plug-in; to mount on a wall: pencil, drill with a small bit, screwdriver, hammer

Safety

Choose an alarm that meets the UL 2034 safety standard.
Pick a battery alarm, or a plug-in one with a battery backup.
Keep it out of kitchens and away from heating vents. Don't put it above a fuel-burning appliance or where furniture or curtains can cover it.
The test button checks the alarm's circuit, not its sensor. Replace the alarm by the maker's replace-by date.
Never take out the batteries to stop the alarm.
A chirp about once a minute usually means the batteries are low. Other chirp patterns can mean the alarm must be replaced, so check its manual. Can't tell a chirp from an alarm? Treat it as an alarm.

Before you hire, ask

Where should each alarm go in my home?
Does it meet UL 2034, and when does it need replacing?
Can the alarms be linked so they all sound together?

In Florida: Florida requires a CO alarm within 10 feet of each bedroom in homes and additions built since July 1, 2008. This applies if the home has a fuel-burning appliance, a fireplace, or an attached garage. Battery or wired alarms both count. (Fla. Stat. § 553.885(1) (2026))

Sources: CO Alarms (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Carbon Monoxide Questions and Answers (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Basics (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention); Battery Operated Carbon Monoxide Alarm, Model CO400 user's manual (First Alert / BRK Brands, alarm maker); Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm, Model SC7010B user's manual (hardwired) (First Alert / BRK Brands, alarm maker). Checked September 28, 2026.

Test the garage door's auto-reverseDIY

You can likely do this yourself. This is a quick monthly safety check that federal rules have opener makers tell owners to do. Lay a 2x4 flat in the door's path. The closing door must reverse when it hits the board.

Stop: if the door does not reverse when it hits the board, or it closes while the sensor beam is blocked. Stop using the opener and call a trained garage door technician.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. A safety test is not construction work, so no permit is needed. Rules for repairs vary locally.

License

No license is needed to test your own door. Some states license garage door repair work.

Skill and tools

Easy: A 2x4 board laid flat; a box to block the sensor beam

Safety

Keep people, pets, and cars out of the door's path during the test.
Never walk or reach under a door that stopped partway.
Pull the emergency release only when the door is closed. A weak or broken spring can make an open door fall fast.
Mount the wall button high, and keep remotes away from kids.

Before you hire, ask

Will you retest the auto-reverse and the sensors after the repair?
Is my door balanced, and are the springs in good shape?
Is the part you are replacing covered by a warranty?

Sources: Non-Reversing Automatic Garage Door Openers Are a Hazard (Publication 523) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); 16 CFR 1211.16, Instruction manual (Safety Standard for Automatic Residential Garage Door Operators) (U.S. Government, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); 16 CFR 1211.1, Effective date (U.S. Government, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); Premium Series Model 8500RGD garage door opener manual (Raynor Garage Doors, door and opener maker); D-28 Doors, Gates and Activating Devices (license classification) (California Contractors State License Board). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace a garage door springPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. Garage door springs, cables, and brackets are under extreme tension. Makers say only a trained door technician should fix or adjust them. A slip can cause serious injury.

Stop: if a spring is broken, or the door sticks, binds, or seems out of balance. Do not touch the springs, cables, or brackets. Call a trained garage door technician.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. A permit is rarely needed for this repair. Check local rules.

License

Some states license garage door work, such as California's door and gate license class. Check your state's licensing board.

Skill and tools

Hard: Special tools and training; none for you

Safety

Never loosen or adjust springs, cables, or brackets yourself.
Don't use the opener until the spring is fixed. An unbalanced door may not reverse.
Pull the emergency release only when the door is closed. A broken spring can make an open door fall fast.
Keep everyone out from under the door until it is fixed.

Before you hire, ask

Are the new springs matched to my door's size and weight?
Will you check the door's balance and test the opener's auto-reverse when you are done?
Are you licensed, if my state requires it, and insured?

In Florida: Florida offers a state garage door license, but it is not required. Your city or county may still require a local license, so check before you hire. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.113(6)(a), 489.117(4)(a)1 (2026); Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G4-15.100(1)(k))

Sources: Premium Series Model 8500RGD garage door opener manual (Raynor Garage Doors, door and opener maker); 16 CFR 1211.16, Instruction manual (Safety Standard for Automatic Residential Garage Door Operators) (U.S. Government, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); Non-Reversing Automatic Garage Door Openers Are a Hazard (Publication 523) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); 2024 International Residential Code, R105.2.2 Repairs (International Code Council); D-28 Doors, Gates and Activating Devices (license classification) (California Contractors State License Board); TDS-190: Factors Affecting Spring Cycle Life (Door & Access Systems Manufacturers Association). Checked September 28, 2026.

Heating and cooling

Change the furnace or AC filterDIY

You can likely do this yourself. This is normal owner upkeep. ENERGY STAR says to check the filter every month. A dirty one can raise your bills and harm the system. Use the right size, make sure it fits snug, and point the arrow the way the air flows.

Stop: if the right-size filter won't slide in without bending, or reaching it means climbing into the attic or opening a panel with tools. Also stop if you see ice or water at the indoor unit. Turn the cooling off and call a heating and cooling technician.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Changing a filter is normal upkeep. The model code needs no permit to swap a small part like this. Local rules can differ.

License

This is owner upkeep, so no trade license is normally needed.

Skill and tools

Easy: New filter in the size printed on the old one; a marker to write the date

Safety

Turn the system off at the thermostat before you pull out the old filter.
If you see ice on the unit, don't chip it off. That can damage the coil.

Before you hire, ask

What filter size and rating does my system need?
Can you show me where the filter goes and which way the arrow points?
Can my system handle a higher-rated filter?

In Florida: Florida's rules say that changing a filter is not taking the AC apart. So it is not the kind of duct cleaning that needs a license. (Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G4-12.011(13))

Sources: Maintenance Checklist (ENERGY STAR (U.S. EPA)); Guide to Air Cleaners in the Home (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); What is a MERV rating? (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Air Conditioner Filter Replacement 101 (Trane (HVAC equipment maker)); What To Do If the AC Evaporator Coil Is Frozen (Trane (HVAC equipment maker)); 2024 International Residential Code, Section R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council). Checked September 28, 2026.

Clear a clogged AC drain lineIt depends

It depends on one question. A plugged drain can back water up, cause water damage, and make the air damp. Many systems have a safety switch that shuts the AC off when the drain pan fills. Some makers show owners how to clear the line. Others say to leave it to a technician.

Can you reach the outside end of the drain line, or a cleanout cap on it, while standing on the floor or ground?

Yes: DIY. Turn the system off first. Use a wet-dry vacuum on the outside end of the line. If you can reach only a cleanout cap, follow your owner's manual or have a technician show you.
No: Pro. Call a heating and cooling technician. That includes a cleanout you can reach only from the attic, or a line that drains to a small pump. Ask them to show you how to keep the line clear.

Stop: if you'd have to open the unit's panels, or water has reached a ceiling or floor. Also stop if the system shuts off again after you clear the line.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Clearing a clog is normal upkeep, so it does not need a permit under the model code. Local rules can differ.

License

You don't need a license to clear your own drain line. If you hire help, use a heating and cooling technician. License rules for them vary by state.

Skill and tools

Easy: Wet-dry vacuum, towels, flashlight

Safety

Turn the system off at the thermostat or breaker before you work on the drain.
Never bypass or unplug the float safety switch. It shuts the unit off to help stop a flood.

Before you hire, ask

What caused the clog, and is the drain pan or pump damaged?
Does my system have a working safety switch or overflow drain?
Can you show me the cleanout so I can keep the line clear?

In Florida: In Florida, installing an AC condensate drain line is part of the licensed AC contractor's job. Clearing a clog yourself at home is not contracting. (Fla. Stat. § 489.105(3)(f), (g), (i) (2026))

Sources: Maintenance Checklist (ENERGY STAR (U.S. EPA)); A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); 2024 International Residential Code, Sections M1411.9.1 Auxiliary and secondary drain systems and M1411.9.3 Drain line maintenance (International Code Council); How to Clean AC Drain Line (Carrier (HVAC equipment maker)); AC Condensate Drain Line Clogged? Learn What You Can Do (Trane (HVAC equipment maker)); 10 Tips for Hiring a Heating and Cooling Contractor (ENERGY STAR (U.S. EPA)). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace your old thermostatIt depends

It depends on one question. Central heat and AC thermostats often use low-voltage wires. The model code lets you change those without a permit. Thermostats for electric baseboard and floor heat usually run on 120 or 240 volts and can shock you. Old thermostats may hold mercury.

Is your heat from electric baseboard, wall, or floor heaters? Or does the outside of the old thermostat say 110, 115, 120, or 240 volts?

Yes: Pro. That is likely a line-voltage thermostat. It carries full house power that can shock or kill. Don't take it off the wall to check. Hire a licensed electrician.
No: DIY. Furnace, AC, and heat pump thermostats are often low voltage, about 24 volts. Turn the power off at the breaker before you take the old one off the wall. Label each wire by its letter, and follow the new one's steps. Some wall or floor heaters need a special millivolt thermostat.

Stop: if you find thick wires with wire nuts, or L1 and L2 labels, behind the old thermostat. Also stop if the wires don't match the new one's steps, or if setup means work inside the furnace.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Low-voltage thermostat wiring needs no permit under the model code. Work on 120- or 240-volt wiring may need an electrical permit. Local rules vary.

License

You don't need a license to swap your own low-voltage thermostat. For a 120- or 240-volt one, hire a licensed electrician. Rules vary by state and city.

Skill and tools

Some skill: Screwdriver, drill, tape and pen to label wires, phone camera, voltage tester

Safety

Before you take the old thermostat off the wall, turn off power to it and to the heating and cooling system at the breaker. Then test that it is off.
Old thermostats may contain mercury. Take yours to a household hazardous waste site, not the trash.

Before you hire, ask

Is my thermostat low-voltage or line-voltage?
Will the new thermostat work with my system, and does it need a common (C) wire?
Will you recycle the old thermostat if it has mercury?

In Florida: In Florida, AC contractors and some electricians are licensed to wire thermostats. The law isn't clear on whether a paid handyman may swap one. If you pay someone, hire a licensed AC contractor or electrician. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.105(3)(f), (g), (i), 489.505(12) (2026))

Sources: Thermostat Controls (installation and retrofit guide) (U.S. Department of Energy, Building America Solution Center (PNNL)); 2024 International Residential Code, Section R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); What types of HVAC systems are ecobee thermostats compatible with? (ecobee (thermostat maker)); TEP Series Programmable Electronic Line Voltage Thermostat: User's Guide (Cadet (electric heater and thermostat maker)); Line Voltage Thermostats (regulation definition) (Natural Resources Canada); Mercury in Consumer Products (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Storing, Transporting and Disposing of Mercury (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency). Checked September 28, 2026.

Recharge the AC or fix a refrigerant leakPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. Federal law says only an EPA-certified technician may add refrigerant or hook gauges to your AC. If refrigerant is low, EPA says to have the leak found and fixed, not just topped off.

Stop: before you attach gauges, open a service port, or add refrigerant from any kit. That is certified-technician work.

Permit

Sometimes needs a permit. Replacing a big part, like a coil, may need a permit. Small part swaps often don't. Rules vary by city.

License

Federal law says only an EPA-certified tech may do this work. State license rules for heating and cooling pros vary, so check yours.

Skill and tools

Hard: Not a DIY job. The tech brings gauges, leak finders, and gear to catch the old refrigerant.

Safety

Refrigerants can be poisonous, can catch fire, or can crowd out the air you breathe.
Never add a 'drop-in' replacement refrigerant. EPA warns some are made with propane and can burn or explode.
Leave the caps on the outdoor unit's refrigerant ports alone. Building codes call for locking caps to keep people out.
Ice on the lines can come from a dirty filter, not just low refrigerant. Turn the cooling off, don't chip the ice, check the filter, and call a technician.

Before you hire, ask

Is the technician EPA Section 608 certified? Can I see the card?
Will you find and fix the leak instead of just adding refrigerant?
What refrigerant does my system use, and is that what you will add?

In Florida: In Florida, paid AC repair must be done by a licensed contractor. That includes refrigerant work. The license can be for AC or for mechanical work. (Fla. Stat. § 489.105(3)(f)–(i) (2026))

Sources: Section 608 Technician Certification Requirements (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Homeowners and Consumers: Frequently Asked Questions (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Refrigerant Sales Restriction (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Stationary Refrigeration: Prohibition on Venting Refrigerants (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Questions and Answers About R-22a Safety (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Refrigerant Safety (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); 2024 International Residential Code, Section M1411.15 Locking access port caps (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Sections R105.1 Required and R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); What To Do If the AC Evaporator Coil Is Frozen (Trane (HVAC equipment maker)); 10 Tips for Hiring a Heating and Cooling Contractor (ENERGY STAR (U.S. EPA)). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace the AC, heat pump, or furnacePro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. A new system means work on refrigerant, wiring, and often gas pipes and vents. Federal law says only an EPA-certified tech may handle the refrigerant. The code also calls for a permit and a system sized for your home.

Stop: before you buy a unit or a do-it-yourself kit. A pro should size it, and only an EPA-certified tech may hook up the refrigerant lines.

Permit

Usually needs a permit. The model code requires a permit to replace heating or cooling equipment. Check your city's rules and fees.

License

Check your state's license rules for heating and cooling contractors. Florida, for one, licenses them. Federal law says only an EPA-certified tech may handle the refrigerant.

Skill and tools

Hard: Not a DIY job. The contractor brings the tools for refrigerant, gas, and wiring.

Safety

A gas furnace put in or vented wrong can leak carbon monoxide. CPSC says to have fuel-burning heaters checked by a pro every year.
EPA says even a mini-split kit needs a certified tech to hook up its lines.

Before you hire, ask

Will you do a room-by-room load calculation to size the new system?
Will you get the permit, and are your technicians EPA Section 608 certified?
Will you recover the old refrigerant, check the ducts, and test the charge?

In Florida: In Florida, replacing central AC or heat needs a permit and a licensed AC or mechanical contractor. A plug-in unit of 3 tons or less with no ducts, like a window unit, needs no contractor license. But a split system's lines still need an EPA-certified tech. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.103(14), 489.105(3)(f)–(i), 553.79(1)(g) (2026); Fla. Bldg. Code, Building §§ 105.1–105.2 (8th ed. 2023))

Sources: 2024 International Residential Code, Section R105.1 Required (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Section M1401.3 Equipment and appliance sizing (International Code Council); Homeowners and Consumers: Frequently Asked Questions (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Stationary Refrigeration Safe Disposal Requirements (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); 10 Tips for Hiring a Heating and Cooling Contractor (ENERGY STAR (U.S. EPA)); HVAC Quality Installation (ENERGY STAR (U.S. EPA)); Home Heating Equipment (carbon monoxide) (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Maintenance Checklist (ENERGY STAR (U.S. EPA)); Florida Statutes 489.105 Definitions (air-conditioning contractor classes) (Florida Legislature (2026 Florida Statutes)). Checked September 28, 2026.

Roof, windows, and outside

Clean the guttersIt depends

It depends on one question. Clogged gutters can spill water near your house, and EPA says to clean them regularly. The real danger is the ladder. CPSC warns that ladder falls can cause broken bones or even death.

Is it a one-story house, with firm, level ground for the ladder and no power lines within 10 feet?

Yes: DIY. Work from the ladder, never the roof. Have a helper hold it, and keep three points of contact.
No: Handyman. Hire a gutter service or handyman. Pick one with tall ladders, fall gear, and insurance. If a power line is within 10 feet of the gutter, call your power company before anyone works there.

Stop: if you would have to step onto the roof, lean past the sides of the ladder, or come within 10 feet of a power line.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Cleaning gutters is routine upkeep. It normally needs no permit, but local rules can differ.

License

No trade license is normally needed for gutter cleaning. If you hire someone, ask for proof of insurance first.

Skill and tools

Some skill: Sturdy ladder, work gloves, bucket or tarp, garden hose

Safety

Set the ladder on firm, level ground, and have a helper steady it.
Look up for power lines before you move a ladder. Keep yourself and the ladder at least 10 feet away. Metal ladders are worst, but any ladder can carry power.
Don't stand on the top step of a stepladder or the top three rungs of an extension ladder.
Take extra care if you are 65 or older. CPSC says people that age are 80% more likely than other adults to go to the ER for ladder or stool injuries.

Before you hire, ask

Do you have liability and worker injury insurance? Can I see proof?
How will your crew stay safe on ladders and near power lines?
Will you flush the downspouts and show me any damage you find?

Sources: Portable Ladder Safety (QuickCard, OSHA 3246) (U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration); 29 CFR 1910.333(c)(3) Overhead lines (Occupational Safety and Health Administration); Overhead Power Lines (Duke Energy (utility)); Home Safe: Outdoor Repairs checklist (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); How To Avoid a Home Improvement Scam (U.S. Federal Trade Commission). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace a few loose or missing shinglesPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. The work is on the roof, and falls are the top cause of construction deaths, OSHA says. Roofers use fall protection. The code also says shingles must go on by the maker's instructions so they hold in wind.

Stop: if the fix needs you on the roof. Look from the ground, take photos, and call a roofer.

Permit

Sometimes needs a permit. Small repairs often need no permit under the model code. But roofing rules vary a lot, so ask your building department.

License

Roofer license rules differ by state and city. Check your state's contractor board, and ask for proof of insurance.

Skill and tools

Hard: Not a DIY job; the roofer brings ladders, fall gear, and matching shingles

Safety

Stay off the roof. OSHA says a fall from 6 feet or more can cause serious injury or death.

Before you hire, ask

Do you have the license my state or city requires? Do you have insurance for damage and for worker injuries?
Will the new shingles match my roof and go on by the maker's instructions?
Does this repair need a permit, and will you get it?

In Florida: Florida's code doesn't list roof repairs as permit-free, but your building official may OK a small fix as a minor repair. Paid roof work that needs a permit is a job for a licensed roofer. The state says a temporary roof tarp needs no state contractor license. (Fla. Bldg. Code, Building § 105.2 (8th ed. 2023); Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G4-12.011(2); Fla. Stat. § 489.103(6) (2026); DBPR CILB Fact Sheet, Emergency Order 2022-03 (Oct. 3, 2022))

Sources: OSHA's Fall Prevention Campaign (U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration); Protecting Roofing Workers (OSHA 3755) (U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration); 2024 International Residential Code, Section R905.1 Roof covering application (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Sections R105.1, R105.2 and R105.2.2 Repairs (International Code Council); Florida Statutes 489.105 Definitions (roofing contractor) (Florida Legislature (2026 Florida Statutes)); How To Avoid a Home Improvement Scam (U.S. Federal Trade Commission). Checked September 28, 2026.

Fix a leaking skylightPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. The seal that keeps rain out is the flashing on the roof around the skylight, so the fix happens up there. Skylights are also a fall danger. NIOSH has reported workers killed by falling through them.

Stop: if the fix needs you on the roof or near the skylight glass. Catch drips inside only if the ceiling isn't sagging and nothing electrical is wet. Take photos and call a roofer.

Permit

Sometimes needs a permit. A small reseal is often an ordinary repair. Replacing the skylight or its flashing may need a permit, so check with your city.

License

Skylight flashing is roof work, and roofer license rules vary by state. In Florida, the roofing license covers skylights.

Skill and tools

Hard: Not a DIY job; the roofer brings ladders, fall gear, and flashing

Safety

Never step, sit, or lean on a skylight. People fall through them.

Before you hire, ask

Is it a leak or condensation, and how did you check?
Will you use the skylight maker's flashing kit or instructions?
Do you have the license my state or city requires, and do you carry insurance?

In Florida: In Florida, skylights are part of the roofer's license. A paid reseal can skip the license only if it fits the small-job rule: under $2,500, no permit, and not part of a bigger job. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.103(9), 489.105(3)(e) (2026); Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G4-12.011(2))

Sources: NIOSH Alert: Preventing Falls of Workers Through Skylights and Roof and Floor Openings (Publication 2004-156) (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (CDC)); OSHA's Fall Prevention Campaign (U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration); 2024 International Residential Code, Section R903.2 Flashing (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Sections R105.1 and R105.2.2 Repairs (International Code Council); Florida Statutes 489.105 Definitions (roofing contractor) (Florida Legislature (2026 Florida Statutes)); How To Avoid a Home Improvement Scam (U.S. Federal Trade Commission). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace the roofPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. A new roof needs a permit in most places and must meet the code's reroofing rules, like tearing off old layers in many cases. It is high, dangerous work, and falls are the top cause of construction deaths.

Stop: before you climb onto the roof or tear off any shingles. Get written bids from insured roofers, and check their license where your state requires one.

Permit

Usually needs a permit. Most places require a permit for a new roof. Rules and fees vary by city.

License

Roofer license rules vary by state and city. Check your state's board, and ask for the license number where one is required.

Skill and tools

Hard: Not a DIY job; the roofer brings the crew, fall gear, and disposal

Safety

Stay off the roof. OSHA says roof falls caused about a third of construction fall deaths from 2003 to 2013.
Some older roof shingles may contain asbestos, EPA says. Ask the roofer to check before an older roof is torn off.
Walk away if a roofer asks you to get the permit or pay in full up front. The FTC calls these scam signs.

Before you hire, ask

Will you get the permit and schedule the inspections?
Will you tear off to the roof deck, and what happens if you find rotted wood?
Do you have the license my state or city requires, and can I see proof of insurance?

In Florida: A new roof in Florida almost always needs a permit. A licensed roofer must do it, or you can do it yourself as an owner-builder. A roofer can't offer you gifts or pay your deductible to get you to file a roof claim. Did you sign within 180 days after the Governor declared an emergency in your area? Then you can cancel within 10 days. The right ends sooner if a permit is issued or roof work starts, even a temporary fix. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.105(3)(e), 489.147(2)(b), (6)(a), 553.79(1) (2026))

Sources: 2024 International Residential Code, Sections R105.1 Required and R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Section R908 Reroofing (R908.3 Roof replacement, R908.4 Roof recover) (International Code Council); Protecting Roofing Workers (OSHA 3755) (U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration); OSHA's Fall Prevention Campaign (U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration); How To Avoid a Home Improvement Scam (U.S. Federal Trade Commission); Learn About Asbestos (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Florida Statutes 489.105 Definitions (roofing contractor) (Florida Legislature (2026 Florida Statutes)). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace an outside window or doorPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. Most places require a permit. The new unit must meet energy, wind, and safety-glass rules. Many states let unlicensed workers take only small jobs, and a window or door job often costs more than that. In homes built before 1978, federal lead rules cover paid window replacement, no matter how small.

Stop: before you take out an old window or door in a home built before 1978, or if the new one needs a bigger or smaller opening. That means cutting the wall.

Permit

Usually needs a permit. The model code doesn't exempt window or door swaps, so most places need a permit. Ask your city before you order.

License

License rules vary by state. In a home built before 1978, paid window replacement must be done by an EPA or state lead-safe certified firm, unless a test shows no lead or no paint is disturbed.

Skill and tools

Hard: Not a DIY job for most homes; the installer brings flashing, shims, and sealants

Safety

Homes built before 1978 may have lead paint. Taking out old windows, or a door's painted frame and trim, can make lead dust.
Glass in or next to doors usually must be safety glass.
A new bedroom window must still work as an escape window. Ask the installer to check the code's size rules.

Before you hire, ask

Will you get the permit, and does the new window or door meet local code?
If my home was built before 1978, is your firm EPA or state lead-safe certified?
How will you flash and seal it so water stays out?

In Florida: In Florida, new windows, outside doors, and shutters must be approved for wind by the state or county. The code does not make replacing them permit-free. The state license for window installers is optional, but your city or county may require a local one. (Fla. Stat. §§ 553.842(4)–(5), 553.8425, 489.113(6)(a) (2026); Fla. Bldg. Code, Building § 105.2 (8th ed. 2023); Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G4-15.100(1)(j))

Sources: Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program: Contractors (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Program: Consumers (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); When replacing an old wood door and frame with a new steel entry door and frame, how do I determine whether the job qualifies as a minor repair and maintenance activity? (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Lead-Based Paint Program Frequent Questions (January 12, 2026), Question 23002-31781 (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); 2024 International Residential Code, Section R105.1 Required (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Section N1111.1.1.1 Fenestration alterations (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Section R609 Exterior windows and doors (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Section R319.5 Replacement windows for emergency escape and rescue openings (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Section R324.4 Hazardous locations (glazing) (International Code Council); Florida Statutes 489.103 Exemptions (Florida Legislature (2026 Florida Statutes)); California Business and Professions Code Section 7048 (California Legislature); Arizona Revised Statutes 32-1121 (exemptions from contractor licensing) (Arizona Legislature); RCW 18.27.090 Exemptions (Washington State Legislature); 2025 Cost vs. Value Report: National Averages (Journal of Light Construction); How To Avoid a Home Improvement Scam (U.S. Federal Trade Commission). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace fence pickets or deck boardsDIY

You can likely do this yourself. Swapping a few boards is a common owner repair. The model code does not require a permit for fences up to 7 feet tall or for ordinary repairs. The frame, posts, stairs, and railings are different, because they hold people up.

Stop: if posts, the frame under the boards, stairs, or railings are loose, cracked, or soft. Call a deck builder for a deck, or a handyman or fence company for fence posts. Call 811 before anyone digs.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. The model code exempts fences up to 7 feet tall and ordinary repairs from permits. City rules can differ.

License

You don't need a license for your own repairs. If you hire help, a handyman can usually do this, but state limits on unlicensed work vary.

Skill and tools

Some skill: Pry bar, saw, drill, galvanized or stainless outdoor screws or nails, gloves, goggles, dust mask

Safety

Deck or fence wood from before 2004 may be treated with arsenic. Wear goggles and a dust mask when sawing, wash your hands after, and never burn it.
CPSC estimates about 2,900 injuries from deck, balcony, and porch collapses from 2016 to 2019. Have a sagging or wobbly deck checked.
If the fence keeps kids away from a pool, keep it at least 4 feet high with no gaps a child can get through. The gate must still close and latch by itself.

Before you hire, ask

Are the posts and the frame under the boards still solid?
What screws or nails will you use with treated wood?
How will you get rid of the old treated wood?

In Florida: Some Florida cities and counties still license fence installers. Florida's code also has no statewide permit exemption for fences or decks. Ask your building department. (Fla. Stat. § 489.117(4)(a)3 (2026); Fla. Bldg. Code, Building § 105.2 (8th ed. 2023))

Related guides: A Seasonal Home Care Plan You Can Keep

Sources: 2024 International Residential Code, Section R105.2 Work exempt from permit (and R105.2.2 Repairs) (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Section R507 Exterior decks (R507.2.3 fasteners, R507.7 decking) (International Code Council); Chromated Arsenicals (CCA) (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Home Safe: Outdoor Repairs checklist (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Call Before You Dig! (U.S. DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)); Summer Safety Barrier Checklist for Pool and Spa Owners (Pool Safely (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission)). Checked September 28, 2026.

Paint the outside of the houseIt depends

It depends on one question. Painting needs no permit under the model code. In older homes, scraping and sanding can spread lead dust, which is why federal rules cover paid work. Walls above one story add ladder risk.

Was your house built before 1978, or are you not sure?

Yes: Pro. Hire a painter from an EPA or state lead-safe certified firm. Old paint may contain lead. Anyone you pay to disturb more than 20 square feet of outside paint must be certified. If you do it yourself, use EPA's lead-safe steps.
No: DIY. You can paint it yourself up to one story high if the ladder sits on firm, level ground and no power line is within 10 feet. For anything higher, hire a painter with the right ladders and insurance.

Stop: if you'd need a ladder above the first story or would have to work from the roof. Hire a painter with the right ladders and insurance. Also stop if a ladder would come within 10 feet of a power line, and call your power company.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. The model code lists painting as permit-free. Local rules can differ.

License

Homes built before 1978: a painter you pay to disturb more than 20 square feet of outside paint must be EPA or state lead-safe certified, unless a test shows no lead. Other painter rules vary by state.

Skill and tools

Some skill: Ladder, scrapers, brushes and rollers, plastic sheeting, spray mister

Safety

Homes built before 1978: never burn paint off. Keep heat guns under 1,100°F. Only power-sand with a tool hooked to a HEPA (fine-dust) vacuum. Mist paint before you scrape.
Keep kids and pets away from paint chips and dust, and clean up every day.
Set ladders on firm, level ground, at least 10 feet from power lines.
Have a helper hold the ladder. Don't stand on the top step of a stepladder or the top three rungs of an extension ladder.

Before you hire, ask

If my home was built before 1978, is your firm lead-safe certified, and can I see the certificate?
How will you contain paint chips and clean up each day?
Do you have insurance, and how will your crew work safely on ladders or scaffolds?

In Florida: Florida has no state license for house painters. Cities and counties can't require one either. But coating a roof to seal it or stop leaks is roofing work. That needs a licensed roofer. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.105(3)(e), 489.117(4)(a)1 (2026))

Sources: Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program: Contractors (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); 40 CFR 745.83 Definitions (minor repair and maintenance activities) (National Archives, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); 40 CFR 745.85 Work practice standards (National Archives, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); Lead-Safe Renovations for DIYers (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); 2024 International Residential Code, Section R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); Portable Ladder Safety (QuickCard, OSHA 3246) (U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration); 29 CFR 1910.333(c)(3) Overhead lines (Occupational Safety and Health Administration); Overhead Power Lines (Duke Energy (utility)); Home Safe: Outdoor Repairs checklist (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); How To Avoid a Home Improvement Scam (U.S. Federal Trade Commission). Checked September 28, 2026.

Walls, floors, and paint

Patch a hole in drywallIt depends

It depends on one question. Small holes are a common do-it-yourself fix with patching compound or a patch kit. Big holes take more skill, so many people hire a handyman. Older homes need more care. Sanding or breaking old walls can spread lead dust, and some old wall mud may hold asbestos.

Is the hole smaller than about 6 inches across?

Yes: DIY. Fill small holes with patching compound, and use a patch kit for holes up to about 6 inches. In a home built before 1978, sand only the new compound. Mist it first, sand by hand, and keep kids away.
No: Handyman. A big hole needs a new piece of drywall, tape, and several coats. Many people hire a handyman, and handy owners can do it too. Before 1978, a paid worker must be lead-safe certified if the job disturbs over 6 square feet of paint in a room or breaks out old wall.

Stop: if your home was built before 1978 and the damage is bigger than about 6 square feet in one room, or you would have to smash out old wall. Get it tested, or hire an EPA or state lead-safe certified pro.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Patching is a simple repair, so a permit is rarely needed. Check local rules.

License

You don't need a license for your own home. Before 1978, paid work needs an EPA or state lead-safe certified firm, unless the patch is small and cut out cleanly or a test shows no lead.

Skill and tools

Some skill: Putty knife and patching or joint compound. Patch kit or scrap drywall. Sanding sponge, utility knife, and drywall screws. Time: About 1 hour of work plus drying time between coats (how-to guide estimate)

Safety

Home built before 1978? Treat old paint as if it has lead unless a certified inspector says it doesn't. Mist before sanding, sand by hand, clean up with a HEPA (fine-dust) vacuum, and keep kids away.
Old wall mud and textured paint can contain asbestos. If your home was built before 1978, don't cut, sand, or drill the old wall until a trained pro tests it. EPA says not to take samples yourself.
If a leak made the hole, fix the leak and dry the wall first. Never patch or paint over mold.
Before you cut the wall to fit a patch, check for wires and pipes behind it. Take extra care near outlets, switches, and plumbing.

Before you hire, ask

If my home was built before 1978, is your firm EPA or state lead-safe certified?
How will you keep dust in the work area and clean up after?
Is priming and painting the patch included?

In Florida: A small patch needs no state license. Florida also bars cities and counties from requiring a license for handyman work or plastering. For a big drywall job, ask if your city or county needs a local drywall license. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.103(9), 489.117(4)(a)1 (2026))

Sources: If I use a hammer to make a hole in a wall that is two feet on each side, does the RRP Rule apply? (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); 40 CFR 745.83 Definitions (Renovation, Repair and Painting rule) (U.S. EPA regulation, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); 40 CFR 745.85 Work practice standards (U.S. EPA regulation, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program: Contractors (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Lead-Safe Renovations for DIYers (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Asbestos in the Home (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Protect Your Family from Exposures to Asbestos (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); 2024 International Residential Code R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code R105.2.2 Repairs (International Code Council); Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Electrical Safety (Electrical Safety Foundation International); How to Patch Holes in Drywall (This Old House). Checked September 28, 2026.

Paint a roomIt depends

It depends on one question. Painting your own home needs no license or permit in most places, and mistakes are easy to redo. The big exception is old paint in homes built before 1978. Prep work there can spread lead dust, which is most harmful to young children.

Was your home built before 1978 (or are you not sure), and will you scrape or sand old paint?

Yes: Pro. Old paint may have lead, and scraping or sanding makes lead dust. EPA says to hire a lead-safe certified firm. The law requires one for paid work that disturbs over 6 square feet of paint in a room. If you do it yourself, follow EPA's lead-safe steps.
No: DIY. Painting over clean, sound paint is a classic do-it-yourself job. Open windows or run a fan, and follow the paint can's label.

Stop: if your home was built before 1978 and old paint is peeling, chipping, or needs scraping or sanding. Have it tested by a certified lead inspector, or hire an EPA or state lead-safe certified firm.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. The model code says painting needs no permit, but check your local rules.

License

Homes built before 1978: if you pay a painter to disturb over 6 square feet of paint in a room, the firm must be lead-safe certified by EPA or your state. This does not apply if a certified test shows no lead.

Skill and tools

Easy: drop cloths, painter's tape, brush, roller and tray, ladder, patching compound

Safety

In a home built before 1978, never burn off old paint or power-sand it without a special dust catcher. Federal rules ban these methods for paid workers because they spread lead.
Old textured or popcorn ceilings and textured paint may contain asbestos. Don't scrape or sand them until a trained pro tests them.
Paint gives off fumes. EPA says to add fresh air and follow the label.

Before you hire, ask

For a home built before 1978: is your firm EPA or state lead-safe certified, and can I see the certificate?
How will you prep the walls and keep dust contained?
What paint, how many coats, and what cleanup are included?

In Florida: Florida has no state license for painters. Cities and counties can't require one either. (Fla. Stat. § 489.117(4)(a)1 (2026))

Sources: Reduce the Risk of Lead Exposure at Home (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); 40 CFR 745.83 Definitions (Renovation, Repair and Painting rule) (U.S. EPA regulation, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); 40 CFR 745.82 Applicability (U.S. EPA regulation, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); 40 CFR 745.85 Work practice standards (U.S. EPA regulation, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); Lead-Safe Renovations for DIYers (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Program: Consumers (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program: Contractors (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); 2024 International Residential Code R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); Asbestos in the Home (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Protect Your Family from Exposures to Asbestos (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Volatile Organic Compounds' Impact on Indoor Air Quality (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency). Checked September 28, 2026.

Re-caulk a tub or showerDIY

You can likely do this yourself. Cutting out old caulk and laying a new bead is a common, low-risk job with basic tools. No license or permit is normally needed. The main mistake to avoid is sealing over mold or a wet wall.

Stop: if mold covers more than about 10 square feet (about a 3-by-3-foot patch), or water is getting behind the tub or tile. Fix the water problem first, or call a tile pro or plumber.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Re-caulking is a simple repair that needs no permit under the model code. Check local rules.

License

No license is needed, and a handyman can do it. State limits on unlicensed work vary.

Skill and tools

Easy: Utility knife or caulk remover, rubbing alcohol, and rags. Painter's tape, a caulk gun, and tub-and-tile caulk. Time: Wait about 24 hours before using the tub, or as the caulk label says

Safety

EPA says not to caulk over mold. Clean it off and let the area dry fully first.
If you clean mold with bleach, never mix it with ammonia or any other cleaner. CDC says this makes a poisonous gas.
Run the bathroom fan or open a window. Better airflow helps keep mold from coming back.

Before you hire, ask

Will you remove all the old caulk and clean off any mold before re-caulking?
What kind of caulk will you use, and how long before we can shower?
What will you do if you find a soft or wet wall behind the tile?

In Florida: Florida has no state license for caulking. Cities and counties can't require one either. (Fla. Stat. § 489.117(4)(a)1 (2026))

Sources: A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Mold: Cleaning (If You Use Bleach) (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention); 2024 International Residential Code R105.2.2 Repairs (International Code Council); How to Caulk a Bathtub (This Old House). Checked September 28, 2026.

Hang shelves or mount a TVIt depends

It depends on one question. Wall mounts and anchor kits are made for homeowners. The federal product safety agency, CPSC, urges people to anchor TVs and furniture. The legal line is new power. A new outlet usually needs a permit.

Do you want new power behind the TV, like a new outlet or wiring hidden in the wall?

Yes: Pro. Adding an outlet is electrical work, and it usually needs a permit. Hire a licensed electrician. Never hide a plug-in cord inside the wall. The model code forbids it.
No: DIY. Most people can do this with the mount's own hardware. Screw into studs, or use anchors rated for the weight. Strap tall furniture, or a TV on a stand, to the wall. A handyman can do it if you'd rather.

Stop: if you can't hit studs or use anchors the mount maker allows for your wall, or you would have to cut into the wall to add power. Call a handyman for the mount or an electrician for the power.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Shelves and TV mounts need no permit, but a new outlet does under the model code. Local rules vary.

License

No license is needed for shelves or a mount. For a new outlet, hire a licensed electrician.

Skill and tools

Some skill: stud finder, drill and bits, level, pencil, screwdriver, the mount or anchor kit's hardware

Safety

Tip-overs send about 17,800 people a year to the ER, and most tip-over deaths are young children. CPSC says to mount or anchor TVs and tall furniture.
Before you drill, find the studs. Watch for hidden wires and pipes, most of all near outlets, switches, and sinks.
Never run a TV's plug-in cord or an extension cord inside the wall.

Before you hire, ask

Will you screw into studs, or use anchors rated for this weight?
Are you adding an outlet or wiring? If so, are you a licensed electrician pulling a permit?
Are you insured if the wall or TV gets damaged?

In Florida: In Florida, anyone you pay to add an outlet or run power in the wall for the TV must be a licensed electrician. There is no small-job exception. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.503, 489.505(9) (2026))

Sources: Anchor It! What You'll Need (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (AnchorIt.gov)); Anchor It! How to Install a Kit (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (AnchorIt.gov)); CPSC Urges Fans to Anchor TVs and Furniture Before Super Bowl LX (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); 2024 International Residential Code E3909.1 Where permitted (flexible cords) (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code R105.1 Required (International Code Council); 29 CFR 1926.416 Electrical safety (general requirements) (Occupational Safety and Health Administration); Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Electrical Safety (Electrical Safety Foundation International). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace an interior doorIt depends

It depends on one question. Swapping an interior door rarely needs a permit. Getting it to hang straight takes skill. In older homes, lead rules apply to paid work if old paint on the frame or trim gets disturbed.

Was your home built before 1978 (or are you not sure), and will the job take out the old door frame or trim?

Yes: Pro. Old frames and trim often have lead paint, and prying them off makes lead dust. A paid job that disturbs over 6 square feet of paint in a room needs an EPA or state lead-safe certified firm. Pulling a frame and trim can reach that. If you do it yourself, use EPA's lead-safe steps.
No: Handyman. A handyman or carpenter can hang a new door. If you're handy, it's a medium-skill job. In a home built before 1978, don't sand or plane the old door or frame. If its paint is chipping, a paid worker needs lead-safe certification.

Stop: if you would need to widen the opening or change the framing. That means cutting the wall, which usually needs a permit and may involve a load-bearing wall.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. A new door in the same opening needs no permit under the model code. A wider opening usually does. Rules vary.

License

In a home built before 1978, a paid job that disturbs over 6 square feet of old paint in a room needs an EPA or state lead-safe certified firm. Lifting a door off its hinges usually doesn't count, but pulling a frame and trim can. A test that shows no lead is the exception. Other license rules vary by state.

Skill and tools

Some skill: level, tape measure, shims, drill-driver, screws or finish nails, saw, pry bar

Safety

The door from the house to an attached garage must resist fire. Use solid wood or steel at least 1 3/8 inches thick, or a 20-minute fire-rated door. It must close and latch by itself.
Lead dust from old doors is most dangerous for young children. Keep them out of the work area.

Before you hire, ask

If my home was built before 1978, is your firm EPA or state lead-safe certified?
Are you replacing just the door, or the frame and trim too?
If it's the door to the garage, will the new door meet fire rules and close on its own?

Sources: Lead-Based Paint Program Frequent Questions (January 12, 2026), Question 23002-19751 (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); When replacing an old wood door and frame with a new steel entry door and frame, how do I determine whether the job qualifies as a minor repair and maintenance activity? (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); 40 CFR 745.83 Definitions (Renovation, Repair and Painting rule) (U.S. EPA regulation, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); 40 CFR 745.82 Applicability (U.S. EPA regulation, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); Reduce the Risk of Lead Exposure at Home (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Lead-Safe Renovations for DIYers (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); 2024 International Residential Code R105.2.2 Repairs (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code R302.5.1 Opening protection (International Code Council); How to Install a Pre-Hung Interior Door (This Old House); Florida Statutes 489.103 Exemptions (Florida Legislature (2026 Florida Statutes)). Checked September 28, 2026.

Put in new flooringIt depends

It depends on one question. Flooring is finish work that rarely needs a permit, and click-together floors are made for do-it-yourselfers. The danger is what comes out. Old floors and glue may hold asbestos, and pulling painted trim in a pre-1978 home can spread lead dust.

Will you tear out old vinyl flooring, old floor tiles, or old floor glue that hasn't been tested for asbestos?

Yes: Pro. Some old vinyl tiles, sheet-vinyl backing, and floor glues contain asbestos, and you can't tell by looking. Don't sand, scrape, or rip it up. Have a trained asbestos pro test it. EPA says to lay the new floor over old asbestos flooring if you can. Removal should be done by trained asbestos pros.
No: DIY. Click-together floors laid over a flat, sound floor are a common DIY job. That can include laying them over old vinyl, as long as you don't sand, scrape, or tear it. Tile and glue-down or nail-down floors take more skill, and many people hire an installer.

Stop: before you pull up any old vinyl, old tile, or old glue that hasn't been tested. Leave it in place until a trained asbestos pro checks it.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Tile, carpet, and similar floors need no permit under the model code. Fixing the framing under them may. Local rules vary.

License

In a home built before 1978, a paid installer who pulls painted trim may need to be EPA or state lead-safe certified. That applies when over 6 square feet of paint in a room is disturbed.

Skill and tools

Some skill: tape measure, saw or plank cutter, spacers, tapping block, pry bar, rubber mallet

Safety

CPSC says sanding old vinyl, asphalt, or rubber floor tiles can release asbestos fibers. Don't dust, sweep, or vacuum debris that may contain asbestos.
Don't sand or grind old vinyl, its backing, or its glue to level the floor. They may contain asbestos.
EPA says a trained, accredited pro should take asbestos samples. Taking them yourself is not recommended.
In a home built before 1978, old painted baseboards may have lead. If you pull them off, mist them first and keep kids away.

Before you hire, ask

Will you test the old flooring or glue for asbestos before tearing it out?
If my home was built before 1978 and you'll remove painted trim, is your firm EPA or state lead-safe certified?
How will you fix or level the subfloor, and is removing and reinstalling trim included?

In Florida: Florida has no state license for putting in floors. Cities and counties can't require one either. (Fla. Stat. § 489.117(4)(a)1 (2026))

Sources: 2024 International Residential Code R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code R105.1 Required (International Code Council); Asbestos in the Home (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Protect Your Family from Exposures to Asbestos (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Learn About Asbestos (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); 40 CFR 745.83 Definitions (Renovation, Repair and Painting rule) (U.S. EPA regulation, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Lead-Safe Renovations for DIYers (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); How to Install Vinyl Plank Flooring (This Old House). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace a few cracked ceramic tilesHandyman

A handyman can usually do this. Swapping a few tiles is low risk and needs no permit. But breaking out one tile without cracking the others takes care and the right tools, so many people hire a handyman. Handy owners can do it themselves.

Stop: if cracks run across many tiles or keep coming back, the floor feels soft or bouncy, or the tiles are old vinyl or asphalt tiles. Have the floor under the tile or the tile itself checked first.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. The model code says tiling needs no permit. Fixing the floor underneath may, and local rules vary.

License

You don't need a license to fix your own tile. If you hire help, ask what license rules apply where you live.

Skill and tools

Some skill: Grout saw, hammer and chisel, safety glasses, and heavy gloves. Notched trowel, tile adhesive, grout, and sponge. Matching spare tiles. Time: About 2 days, mostly waiting for adhesive and grout to cure (how-to guide estimate)

Safety

Wear safety glasses and heavy gloves when breaking out tile. The pieces are sharp and can fly.
CPSC says old vinyl and asphalt floor tiles, and some old tile glues, can contain asbestos. If your floor is one of those, or you find old glue under a tile, don't break, scrape, or sand it until it's tested.

Before you hire, ask

Do you have matching tiles, or can you find them?
Will you check why the tiles cracked before you replace them?
How will you protect the tiles around the broken ones?

In Florida: Florida has no state license for tile or stone work. Cities and counties can't require one either. (Fla. Stat. § 489.117(4)(a)1 (2026))

Remove or open up a wallPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. Any wall may hold up the house or hide wires, pipes, or ducts. The model code treats cutting a wall as permit work. A load-bearing wall needs a new beam, often designed by an engineer.

Stop: before you cut, break, or remove any part of a wall. Have a contractor or engineer confirm whether it's load-bearing, and get the permit first.

Permit

Usually needs a permit. The model code says cutting away a wall is not a simple repair, so expect a permit. Local rules vary.

License

Use a licensed contractor where your state requires one. Use an engineer for a load-bearing wall. Before 1978, the firm must be lead-safe certified by EPA or your state, unless a test shows no lead.

Skill and tools

Hard: Pro job. It needs temporary supports, a new beam sized for the load, permits, and inspections.

Safety

A load-bearing wall holds up part of the house. Taking one out without temporary supports and a new beam can make floors and ceilings sag, crack, or fail.
Old walls can hold lead paint (homes built before 1978) and asbestos in joint compound or textured paint. Have them tested before demolition.
Wires, pipes, and ducts inside the wall must be moved by the right trades, usually with permits.

Before you hire, ask

Who will confirm whether the wall is load-bearing, and will an engineer size the beam?
Who pulls the permit and schedules the inspections?
How will you handle wires, pipes, or ducts in the wall, and will you test for lead and asbestos first?

In Florida: Under Florida code, cutting away a wall is never a minor repair. So expect a permit. If you hire help for a load-bearing wall, use a licensed general, building, or residential contractor. (Fla. Bldg. Code, Building § 105.2.2 (8th ed. 2023); Fla. Stat. §§ 489.105(15), 489.113(3)(a) (2026); Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G4-12.011(2))

Sources: 2024 International Residential Code R105.1 Required (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code R105.2.2 Repairs (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code R301.1.3 Engineered design (International Code Council); 40 CFR 745.83 Definitions (Renovation, Repair and Painting rule) (U.S. EPA regulation, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); 40 CFR 745.82 Applicability (U.S. EPA regulation, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); If I use a hammer to make a hole in a wall that is two feet on each side, does the RRP Rule apply? (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Asbestos in the Home (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); How To Identify and Remove a Load-Bearing Wall (This Old House). Checked September 28, 2026.

Pests and yard

Treat ants with baitDIY

You can likely do this yourself. Store-bought ant baits are made for homeowners, and experts say baits work better and more safely than sprays. The label is the law, so use the bait only as the label says.

Stop: if you see winged insects swarming indoors or mud tubes on walls or the foundation (these can be termites), or ants keep coming after several weeks of baiting. Call a licensed pest pro.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. No permit is needed to use store-bought bait at home. Follow the label and any local rules.

License

You don't need a license for your own home. Most states license people who apply pesticides for pay. Florida bans unlicensed pest businesses.

Skill and tools

Easy: ant bait stations or gel labeled for indoor use, gloves, cleaning supplies, caulk for entry cracks. Time: You may see fewer ants in 5 to 10 days. Full control can take several weeks (university guide)

Safety

Put baits where ants travel but where children and pets can't reach them.
Skip the sprays. They kill only the ants you see, not the colony.
Keep pest products in the package they came in, and follow the label.

Before you hire, ask

What kind of ant is it, and where is the nest?
Are you licensed by the state, and what product will you use?
Can you use baits and sealing instead of spraying?

In Florida: You can treat your own home for ants without a license. If you pay someone to treat your home, Florida requires a licensed pest control company. One exception: a yard worker who doesn't advertise pest control may spread your own ant bait on your lawn or plants from a handheld container. (Fla. Stat. §§ 482.165(1), 482.211(1), (11) (2026))

Sources: Pest Notes: Ants (Publication 7411) (University of California Statewide IPM Program); Introduction to Pesticide Labels (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Citizen's Guide to Pest Control and Pesticide Safety (EPA 735-K-04-002) (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Termites: How to Identify and Control Them (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Pest Notes: Subterranean and Other Termites (Publication 7415) (University of California Statewide IPM Program); Florida Statutes 482.071 Licenses (Florida Legislature); Florida Statutes 482.211 Exemptions (Florida Legislature). Checked September 28, 2026.

Treat termitesPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. EPA says termite treatment usually needs a trained pest pro, and termite companies must be licensed by your state. Store-bought termite products generally do not work well.

Stop: as soon as you see swarming winged insects, mud tubes, or damaged wood. Don't try store-bought termite products. Call a licensed pest control company for an inspection.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Treating a home rarely needs a building permit. State pest laws still apply, and local rules vary.

License

Termite companies must be licensed by your state. They must also follow the pesticide label, which is federal law.

Skill and tools

Hard: Pro job: inspection plus soil treatment, baits, or wood treatment by a state-licensed company

Safety

Ask what chemical will be used and when your family and pets can go back in, and read the label.
Ant swarms are sometimes mistaken for termites. Termites have straight antennae and wings of equal length.

Before you hire, ask

Is your company licensed by the state? Can I see the license?
What treatment do you recommend, what is the active ingredient, and when can we go back inside?
What does your guarantee cover? What could cancel it, like remodeling without telling you?

In Florida: Paid termite work must be done by a pest control company licensed by the state (FDACS), with a state-certified termite operator in charge. You may treat your own home, but not tent it. Store-bought termite products rarely work well. (Fla. Stat. §§ 482.071(1), 482.111(2), (6), 482.211(1) (2026))

Sources: Termites: How to Identify and Control Them (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Pest Notes: Subterranean and Other Termites (Publication 7415) (University of California Statewide IPM Program); Citizen's Guide to Pest Control and Pesticide Safety (EPA 735-K-04-002) (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Introduction to Pesticide Labels (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Florida Statutes 482.071 Licenses (Florida Legislature). Checked September 28, 2026.

Seal the gaps mice and rats useDIY

You can likely do this yourself. CDC says to seal up holes to keep rodents out. Steel wool and caulk fill small gaps, and metal or cement covers big ones. No license or permit is needed for your own home.

Stop: if the gaps are up high at the roof line, or you'd have to crawl through the attic. Also stop if you find lots of droppings or nests you can't reach to clean, or signs of rodents in heating and cooling ducts. Call a pest control pro.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Sealing small gaps is a simple repair that needs no permit under the model code. Check local rules.

License

You don't need a license for your own home. If you hire help, ask about a pest control license. In some states, like Florida, paid work to keep rodents out counts as pest control.

Skill and tools

Easy: flashlight, gloves, steel wool, caulk or spray foam, hardware cloth or metal sheeting, cement patch

Safety

Mice can fit through a hole about as wide as a pencil (1/4 inch), so check small gaps around pipes, doors, vents, and cables.
Don't stuff steel wool or foam into a dryer vent. USFA says the dryer's outside vent cover must open when the dryer runs. Also don't pack foam around a chimney or a hot flue pipe.
If mice are already inside, set traps too. CDC says to trap any that are still in the house.
Don't sweep or vacuum droppings. CDC says to wear gloves, spray them with bleach solution or disinfectant, wait 5 minutes, and wipe up with paper towels.
Keep any rodent bait where children and pets can't reach it.

Before you hire, ask

Will you find and seal every entry point, including the roof line and crawl space?
What will you use to seal the gaps (steel wool, metal, cement)?
Are you licensed for pest control in this state, and will you use traps or poison?

In Florida: Florida's pest law covers paid work to keep rats, mice, squirrels, or bats out of a home. For rats and mice, hire a pest control company licensed by FDACS, or a trapper with FDACS's limited wildlife certificate. For squirrels or bats, ask FDACS before you hire. You may seal up your own home yourself. If bats live inside, Florida bans blocking their way in or out from April 16 through August 14. (Fla. Stat. §§ 482.021(22)(a), 482.157 (2026); Fla. Admin. Code R. 68A-9.010)

Sources: How to Seal Up to Prevent Rodents (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention); How to Clean Up After Rodents (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention); How to Trap Up to Remove Rodents (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention); Clothes Dryer Fire Safety (flyer) (U.S. Fire Administration (FEMA)); 2024 International Residential Code, Sections R1003.18 Chimney clearances and R1003.19 Chimney fireblocking (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code, Sections G2426.4 Insulation shield and G2427.10.5 Clearance (gas vents) (International Code Council); Learn About Asbestos (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Home Safe: Outdoor Repairs checklist (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission); Citizen's Guide to Pest Control and Pesticide Safety (EPA 735-K-04-002) (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency); Florida Statutes 482.021 Definitions (Florida Legislature); Florida Statutes 482.157 Limited certification for commercial wildlife management personnel (Florida Legislature); Florida Statutes 482.211 Exemptions (Florida Legislature); 2024 International Residential Code R105.2.2 Repairs (International Code Council). Checked September 28, 2026.

Replace a broken sprinkler headDIY

You can likely do this yourself. EPA says you may be able to fix broken sprinkler heads yourself. The backflow device and main line are different. The backflow device protects your drinking water, and work on either one may need a licensed pro.

Stop: if the leak is at the backflow device (the valve set where the sprinklers join your water line) or on the main pipe before the valves that run each zone. Call a licensed irrigation pro or plumber.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Swapping a head rarely needs a permit. Work on the backflow device or water supply may. Local rules vary.

License

You can fix your own sprinklers. Some states, like Texas, require a license to repair them for others.

Skill and tools

Easy: small shovel or trowel, replacement head that matches the others in the zone, rag, gloves

Safety

Dig by hand, only in the old hole around the head. For any new or deeper digging, call 811 first.
Under the model code, a sprinkler system tied to drinking water must have backflow protection. Never remove or bypass it.

Before you hire, ask

Do you hold the license my state requires for irrigation or plumbing work?
Will you check the whole zone for other broken heads or leaks?
Will the new head match the spray and flow of the others in that zone?

In Florida: Florida's state license for sprinkler work is optional. So swapping heads needs no state license. Your city or county may still require a local license for paid sprinkler work. (Fla. Stat. §§ 489.113(6)(a), 489.117(4)(a)1 (2026); Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G4-15.100(1)(q))

Related guides: A Seasonal Home Care Plan You Can Keep

Sources: Sprinkler Spruce-Up (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (WaterSense)); Irrigation System Maintenance (UF/IFAS Extension, Gardening Solutions); 2024 International Residential Code P2902.5.3 Lawn irrigation systems (International Code Council); 2024 International Residential Code R105.1 Required (International Code Council); Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1903, Irrigators (Sec. 1903.002 and 1903.251) (Texas Legislature); 811 Before You Dig (Common Ground Alliance); Florida Statutes 556.108 Exemptions (Florida Legislature). Checked September 28, 2026.

Trim tree limbs near power linesPro

Hire a pro: a licensed trade or a trained specialist. Power can flow through branches, ladders, and tools. Federal worker rules keep untrained people at least 10 feet from lines up to 50,000 volts, and farther from bigger lines. Utilities say to call them instead of trimming.

Stop: if any branch is within 10 feet of a power line, a cut branch could fall onto a line, or you can't tell. Call your electric utility. That includes the line from the pole to your house. Big lines on tall towers need even more room.

Permit

Rarely needs a permit. Trimming usually needs no building permit. Local tree rules vary, so check before big cuts.

License

Federal worker rules say only trained crews may trim this close to power lines. Call your utility first.

Skill and tools

Hard: None for you. Leave it to the utility or a trained line-clearance crew

Safety

Never touch a power line or anything touching it, like a branch.
Keep yourself, your ladder, and your tools at least 10 feet from power lines, and farther from big lines on tall towers.
The line from the pole to your house is often the owner's job to keep clear. Some utilities will shut off its power for free so a crew can trim safely. Call first.
If a line is down, stay away and call the utility right away.

Before you hire, ask

Are your workers qualified line-clearance tree trimmers?
Will you contact the utility to shut off power to the line if needed?
Are you insured for work near power lines?

In Florida: Call your power company first about limbs near power lines. Your city or county may require a permit to trim or cut down a tree. At a single-family home, it can't require one if an ISA-certified arborist or a licensed landscape architect writes that the tree is too risky. (Fla. Stat. § 163.045(1)(b), (2) (2026))

Sources: 29 CFR 1910.333(c)(3) Overhead lines (Occupational Safety and Health Administration); 29 CFR 1910.269 (page 2): line-clearance tree trimming, paragraphs (r) and (x) (Occupational Safety and Health Administration); Trees: Line Clearing Program (Florida Power & Light (utility)); Tree Pruning Requests (Duke Energy (utility)); Overhead Power Lines (Duke Energy (utility)); Selecting and Managing Trees to Avoid Conflicts With Overhead Utility Lines (CNRE-182P) (Virginia Cooperative Extension). Checked September 28, 2026.

Dig post holes or plant a treeDIY

You can likely do this yourself. Digging is a fine do-it-yourself job once buried lines are marked. Most states require a call to 811 before you dig, and the call is free. Some states let owners skip it for shallow hand digging, so check your state's rules. Post holes and trees usually go deeper than that.

Stop: don't dig until you've called 811 and every utility has marked or cleared the spot. If you hit a line or smell gas, stop, move to a safe place, and call 911 and the utility.

Permit

Sometimes needs a permit. Digging rarely needs a permit. Under the model code, fences over 7 feet and decks that are attached or large do. Local rules vary.

License

No license is needed. Most state 811 laws cover digging like this. Florida lets owners skip the call only for digs up to 10 inches deep, and not in utility easements.

Skill and tools

Some skill: Shovel, post-hole digger or rented auger, level, and your 811 ticket number. Time: Call 811 a few business days ahead (at least 2 full business days in Florida) and wait for all the marks

Safety

811 marks only lines that utilities own. Your own lines, like power to a shed, gas to a grill or pool heater, or sprinkler pipes, may not be marked. Hire a private locator for those.
Dig by hand near the marks. If you can, stay out of about 18 to 24 inches on each side of a mark.
If you smell gas, move to a safe place and call 911.

Before you hire, ask

Did you call 811, and can I see the ticket number?
Will you hand dig near the marks?
Who will find private lines, like power to a shed or gas to a grill?

In Florida: In Florida, anyone who digs must contact Sunshine 811 at least 2 full business days first. The day you call, weekends, and holidays don't count. Owners can skip the call only for digs 10 inches deep or less on their own single-family lot, away from utility easements. Post holes go deeper. (Fla. Stat. §§ 556.102(1), 556.105(1)(a), 556.108(1) (2026))

Sources: Call Before You Dig! (U.S. DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)); Excavator Exemptions in State One Call Laws (meeting pre-read) (U.S. DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)); 811 Information for Homeowners (Common Ground Alliance); Florida Statutes 556.105 Procedures (Florida Legislature); Florida Statutes 556.108 Exemptions (Florida Legislature); 49 CFR 192.16 Customer notification (U.S. DOT regulation, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations); Private Lines (SC811 (South Carolina one-call center)); Private Underground Utility Information (Colorado 811); Incident Reporting (U.S. DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)); 2024 International Residential Code R105.2 Work exempt from permit (International Code Council). Checked September 28, 2026.

Handyman rules we've checked

Each state sets how big a job a handyman can do without a contractor license. We show a state's rule only after we check its law or licensing board. We list our sources and the date we checked.

State	Handyman rule	Check a license
Arizona	In Arizona, a worker without a contractor license may take a job only if the whole job costs less than $1,000, counting labor and materials. The job also can't need a building permit. The work must be small and simple. A job can't be split into smaller jobs to stay under $1,000. The worker's ads must say 'not a licensed contractor.' Gas hookups, fire sprinklers, and wired-in smoke alarms always need a licensed contractor. Any job that needs a permit needs a licensed contractor, even if it costs less than $1,000. You can work on your own home if it's not for sale or rent. If you sell or rent it within a year after it's done, the law can treat it as built to sell. Sources: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 32-1121; Arizona Registrar of Contractors - contractor search. Checked September 28, 2026.	Arizona Registrar of Contractors
California	In California, a worker with no state license may only take a job that costs less than $1,000 in total. The job must not need a building permit. The worker must work alone. The price counts labor, materials, and everything else. A big job cannot be split into small bills to get under the limit. A job that needs a permit needs a licensed pro. Many electrical, plumbing, gas, heating, and cooling jobs need a permit. The worker cannot act like a licensed contractor. Any ad must say they are not licensed. You may work on your own home without a license if you are not fixing it up to sell. You still need permits. Sources: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 7048; Contractors State License Board (CSLB) - Check a License. Checked September 28, 2026.	California Contractors State License Board
Florida	Florida has no handyman license. Paid work that would need a contractor license may be done without one only if the whole job costs less than $2,500 and the work is minor. The job can't be part of a bigger one or be split up to stay under the limit. Paid electrical work has no small-job exception. Even swapping a light fixture for pay needs a licensed electrician. Some work never counts as minor. That includes work that needs a building permit, touches the structure, or affects life safety. It also includes work with toxic chemicals, or work that changes a way in or out. The worker can't advertise as a contractor. Painting, flooring, and tile work need no state license at any price. Cities and counties can't require a license for those or for handyman work. You may do your own work on a home you own and live in as an owner-builder. You sign the permit yourself, and codes still apply. Sources: Fla. Stat. § 489.103 (2026); Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G4-12.011; Fla. Stat. § 489.505 (2026); Fla. Stat. § 489.117 (2026). Checked September 28, 2026.	Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) — License Search / Verify a Licensee
Georgia	In Georgia, a worker needs a state residential contractor license for a home job worth more than $2,500. Paid electrical, plumbing, and heating and air work always needs a licensed pro. Repairs of any size are allowed without that license if the worker tells you in writing that they are not licensed. The repair can't change the home's structure or safety features, like load-bearing walls or beams. Some trades don't need that license for their own kind of work. These include painters, roofers, and people who put in drywall, floors, siding, gutters, or windows. You can build or fix your own home for you and your family, and do your own electrical, plumbing, and heating and air work there. Permits and inspections still apply. Sources: Ga. Code §§ 43-41-2 and 43-41-17 (2024 SB 503); Georgia Secretary of State licensee search (residential and commercial general contractors, electrical, plumbers, conditioned air, low voltage, utility); Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 553-8-.01 (repair rule); O.C.G.A. § 43-14-19(d)(1) (2026 SB 553). Checked September 28, 2026.	Georgia Secretary of State Licensing Division — State Construction Industry Licensing Board (covers the Residential & General Contractors division, plus Electrical Contractors, Master & Journeyman Plumbers, and Conditioned Air (HVAC) Contractors divisions)
Illinois	Illinois has no state license for handymen or general contractors. The state does not license electrical or heating and cooling work either. But roofing and most plumbing work need a state license. Roof repairs need a licensed roofer too. You may do roofing on your own property. Small plumbing fixes that do not change pipes or replace a fixture are not counted as plumbing. Cities set their own rules. Chicago has its own license for general contractors and one for electricians. You may do plumbing in a one-family home you own or rent and live in. The work must meet the state code. Any helper you pay must be a licensed plumber. Sources: Illinois Compiled Statutes, Chapter 225 (professions); Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) - License Lookup (roofing contractors); Illinois Department of Public Health - Plumbing program (links to plumber license verification). Checked September 28, 2026.	Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) — Plumbing Program · Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) — Roofing Contractor
Michigan	Michigan has no handyman license. A worker without a state builder or repair contractor license may only take a home job that costs less than $600 in all. That counts labor and materials. The $600 counts the whole project. Splitting a bigger job into small bills to stay under $600 is not allowed. Electrical, plumbing, and heating and cooling work each need a state license. Small plumbing fixes, like clearing a clog or replacing a faucet, are an exception. You can do your own work on a single-family home you own and live in, including electrical, plumbing, and heating. Get the permits first. Sources: Mich. Comp. Laws § 339.2403; Michigan LARA license search (residential builders, M&A contractors, electrical, mechanical, plumbing); Michigan LARA - find or verify a license (start page); Mich. Comp. Laws § 339.6103(b) (minor plumbing repair); Mich. Comp. Laws § 339.6107(2)(a). Checked September 28, 2026.	Michigan Dept. of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Bureau of Construction Codes
New Jersey	New Jersey has no exception for small jobs. Anyone who fixes or improves homes for pay as a business must register with the state each year. Part-time work counts too. Electrical, plumbing, and heating or cooling work need a state-licensed pro. Tiny jobs, like changing a bulb or a fuse, do not. Roofers need no special license. They must register like any other home repair business. You may do plumbing, electrical, and heating or cooling work on a one-family home you own and live in, with permits. You do not need to register to work on your own home. A new state license for home improvement workers is planned, but it has not started yet. Sources: New Jersey P.L. 2023, c. 237; NJ Division of Consumer Affairs - License Verification (home improvement contractors, electrical contractors, plumbers, HVACR). Checked September 28, 2026.	NJ Division of Consumer Affairs – Office of Consumer Protection · NJ Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors · NJ State Board of Examiners of Master Plumbers / State Board of Examiners of HVACR Contractors
New York	New York State has no license for handymen or contractors. But New York City does require a local license for home improvement work. So do five counties: Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Putnam, and Rockland. Many towns also license plumbers and electricians. In New York City, only pros with a city license may do plumbing or wiring work. For bigger jobs, state law requires a signed contract. You can cancel it until midnight of the third business day after you sign. Roofers may not require a deposit, and they must show proof of insurance. State law does not stop you from working on your own home. Your city or county may still require permits or licensed pros. Sources: New York Attorney General: home improvement fact sheet; NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection - License Search (home improvement contractors); NYC Department of Buildings - Check License and Registration Status (plumbers, electricians); N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 771-B. Checked September 28, 2026.	No statewide license lookup.
North Carolina	North Carolina has no handyman license. But paid electrical, plumbing, and heating and air work needs a state-licensed pro at any price. Any building or repair project that costs $40,000 or more needs a licensed general contractor. The $40,000 counts the whole project's final price, including changes, but not the land. Cleaning drains and swapping small parts, like a motor or capacitor, don't need a trade license. Replacing a water heater, furnace, air handler, or outdoor AC unit does. Paid lawn sprinkler work that costs $2,500 or more needs a licensed irrigation contractor. Licensed plumbers may do repairs, and some licensed builders may do the work too. You can build or fix your own home without a license if it's for you and your family. Permits still apply. Sources: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 87-1; NC Licensing Board for General Contractors; NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 89G-3. Checked September 28, 2026.	NC Licensing Board for General Contractors · NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors · NC State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors
Ohio	Ohio has no state license for handymen or home repair contractors. Your city or county may require one. Ask your local building department before you hire. Ohio's state licenses for electrical, plumbing, and heating and cooling work are for commercial jobs. They don't cover houses with 1 to 3 units. Many cities and counties license these trades for homes, so check with yours. The state license search only lists trade pros who do commercial work. You can do your own work on your own home. Get any permits your city or county requires. Sources: Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board; Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (commercial electrical, HVAC, plumbing, hydronics, refrigeration) - person lookup; Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board - company lookup. Checked September 28, 2026.	Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) — Ohio Dept. of Commerce, Division of Industrial Compliance
Pennsylvania	Pennsylvania has no state license for handymen or contractors. But most people paid for home improvement work must register with the state Attorney General. A job of $500 or less does not count, so no registration is needed. Some very small businesses do not have to register either. It depends on how much home improvement work they did last year. Ask for the registration number. It must be on your written contract, and you can cancel within three business days. Some cities have their own licenses for plumbing and wiring work. Philadelphia is one. You may do your own unpaid work on your own home. Get the permits your town requires. Sources: Pennsylvania Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act; Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General - Home Improvement Contractor Search. Checked September 28, 2026.	Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General — Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) Registration Search
Tennessee	In 9 Tennessee counties, a home repair or remodel job over $3,000 needs a state home improvement license. In the rest of the state, only jobs of $25,000 or more need a contractor license. The 9 counties are Bradley, Davidson, and Hamilton. The list also has Haywood, Knox, and Marion. It ends with Robertson, Rutherford, and Shelby. In those counties, putting in central heat or AC also counts as home improvement. In those counties too, a job of $25,000 or more needs a full contractor license. Paid electrical and plumbing work may need a state limited license or a city or county license. Ask your local codes office. You can build or fix your own home if it's not for sale, rent, or lease. Permits still apply. Sources: Tenn. Code § 62-6-501; TN Board for Licensing Contractors - contractor license; Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance license search (contractors, home improvement, LLE, LLP); TN Board for Licensing Contractors - how to verify a license. Checked September 28, 2026.	Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors · Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors — Contractor & Qualifying Agent Data
Texas	Texas has no state license for handymen, roofers, or general contractors. But electrical, plumbing, and heating or cooling work for pay usually needs a state license. Small jobs count too. Electrical work for pay needs a state license. Hooking up a hard-wired appliance counts. Low-voltage wiring, like TV or network cable, does not. Plumbing for pay needs a state license in most of Texas. A few rural areas have narrow exceptions. Heating and cooling work for pay needs a state license. Window units and portable units are an exception. You may do your own electrical, plumbing, and heating or cooling work on a home you own and live in. City permits and rules still apply. Sources: Texas Licenses and Permits Guide (Office of the Governor); Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (electricians, A/C and refrigeration) - License Search; Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners - Public License Search. Checked September 28, 2026.	Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) — Electricians Program · Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) — Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors Program · Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners
Virginia	In Virginia, a job worth more than $1,000 needs a state contractor license. A handyman may do a job worth $1,000 or less without one. This does not include electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling, or gas work. The limit is for the whole job, counting labor and materials. Paid electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling, and gas work needs a state trade license. Small jobs count too. You may still need a permit from your city or county. The worker may also need a local business license. You may fix your own main home without a license if you follow the building code. You can use this rule for one home every two years. Sources: Va. Code § 54.1-1100; Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) - License Lookup (contractors and tradesmen). Checked September 28, 2026.	Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR), Board for Contractors
Washington	Washington has no handyman license. But almost anyone paid to build or fix things on a home must register with the state (L&I). The only small-job exception is a whole job under $500, counting labor and materials. The worker also can't advertise as a contractor. Splitting a bigger job into small ones to stay under $500 is not allowed. Paid wiring and plumbing work needs a state license or certificate, no matter how small. If you hire someone who isn't registered, the law could treat you as their employer. Then you could owe their wages, taxes, and injury insurance. You can work on your own home without registering, unless you're fixing it up to sell or rent. Sources: Rev. Code Wash. § 18.27.090; Washington L&I - verify a contractor, electrician, or plumber. Checked September 28, 2026.	Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

Check a contractor's license in any state

Here is where to check a license in each state and Washington DC. If a state has no statewide lookup, ask your city or county building office.

Show license lookups for all 50 states and DC

Alabama: Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors · Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board · Alabama Electrical Contractors Board · Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board · Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors
Alaska: Alaska Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing (CBPL) — Professional License Search
Arizona: Arizona Registrar of Contractors
Arkansas: Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board (ACLB), Dept. of Labor and Licensing · Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board (ACLB), Dept. of Labor and Licensing · Arkansas State Board of Electrical Examiners · Arkansas HVACR Licensing Board, Dept. of Labor and Licensing · Arkansas Department of Health — Plumbing and Natural Gas Program
California: California Contractors State License Board
Colorado: Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) — Division of Professions and Occupations, Online License Lookup
Connecticut: Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) — eLicense License Lookup
Delaware: Delaware Division of Professional Regulation (DPR) — DELPROS License Verification · Delaware Department of Labor — Office of Contractor Registration
Washington DC: DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) — SCOUT Business License Search · DC DLCP — Board of Industrial Trades, OPLA License Search
Florida: Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) — License Search / Verify a Licensee
Georgia: Georgia Secretary of State Licensing Division — State Construction Industry Licensing Board (covers the Residential & General Contractors division, plus Electrical Contractors, Master & Journeyman Plumbers, and Conditioned Air (HVAC) Contractors divisions)
Hawaii: Hawaii Contractors License Board (CLB), Professional & Vocational Licensing Division (PVL), Dept. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs
Idaho: Idaho Contractors Board · Idaho Electrical Board · Idaho State Plumbing Board · Idaho Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Board
Illinois: Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) — Plumbing Program · Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) — Roofing Contractor
Indiana: Indiana Plumbing Commission
Iowa: Iowa Division of Labor / Department of Inspections, Appeals & Licensing (DIAL) — Contractor Registration · Iowa Electrical Examining Board · Iowa Plumbing & Mechanical Systems Board
Kansas: No statewide license lookup. Kansas does not license contractors statewide. Cities and counties do. Ask your city or county building department who needs a license.
Kentucky: Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC) — License Search and Verification
Louisiana: Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors · State Plumbing Board of Louisiana
Maine: Maine Electricians' Examining Board · Maine Plumbers' Examining Board · Maine Fuel Board
Maryland: Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC), Maryland Dept. of Labor · Maryland State Board of Electricians, Maryland Dept. of Labor · Maryland Board of Plumbing, Maryland Dept. of Labor · Maryland Board of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors (HVACR), Maryland Dept. of Labor
Massachusetts: Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) — Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) Registration · Division of Occupational Licensure (DOL), Office of Public Safety and Inspections (OPSI) — Construction Supervisor License (CSL) and Refrigeration Contractor/Technician license · Division of Occupational Licensure (DOL) — Board of State Examiners of Electricians, Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters, and Board of Examiners of Sheet Metal Workers
Michigan: Michigan Dept. of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Bureau of Construction Codes
Minnesota: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI), Construction Codes and Licensing Division
Mississippi: Mississippi State Board of Contractors
Missouri: Missouri Division of Professional Registration (DPR) — Office of Statewide Electrical Contractors
Montana: Montana Board of Construction Contractors · Montana State Electrical Board · Montana Board of Plumbers
Nebraska: Nebraska Department of Labor - Contractor Registration · Nebraska State Electrical Division (NSED), Nebraska Department of Labor
Nevada: Nevada State Contractors Board
New Hampshire: New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification
New Jersey: NJ Division of Consumer Affairs – Office of Consumer Protection · NJ Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors · NJ State Board of Examiners of Master Plumbers / State Board of Examiners of HVACR Contractors
New Mexico: New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department, Construction Industries Division
New York: No statewide license lookup. New York State does not license contractors. New York City and some counties do. Ask your city or county which license the job needs.
North Carolina: NC Licensing Board for General Contractors · NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors · NC State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors
North Dakota: North Dakota Secretary of State - Contractor Licensing · North Dakota State Electrical Board · North Dakota State Plumbing Board
Ohio: Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) — Ohio Dept. of Commerce, Division of Industrial Compliance
Oklahoma: Oklahoma Construction Industries Board (CIB) – Registered Roofing Contractors · Oklahoma Construction Industries Board
Oregon: Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) – contracting business license search · Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD) – individual electrical & plumbing license search
Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General — Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) Registration Search
Rhode Island: Rhode Island Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board (CRLB), State Building Office · Rhode Island Department of Labor & Training (DLT) - Division of Professional Regulation
South Carolina: SC LLR Contractor's Licensing Board · SC LLR Residential Builders Commission · SC LLR – general Licensee Lookup
South Dakota: South Dakota Plumbing Commission
Tennessee: Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors · Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors — Contractor & Qualifying Agent Data
Texas: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) — Electricians Program · Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) — Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors Program · Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners
Utah: Utah Division of Professional Licensing · Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) – Construction Business Registry
Vermont: Vermont Secretary of State, Office of Professional Regulation (OPR) — Residential Contractors · Vermont Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire Safety — Trade Licensing · Vermont Division of Fire Safety Licensing Master List
Virginia: Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR), Board for Contractors
Washington: Washington State Department of Labor & Industries
West Virginia: West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board · West Virginia Office of the State Fire Marshal, Regulatory and Licensing Division
Wisconsin: Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
Wyoming: Wyoming Department of Fire Prevention and Electrical Safety

A homeowner's hand holds a pencil over a to-do list on a kitchen table, next to a tape measure and a bag of hardware. — AI-generated illustration, not a photo of a real home.

How we built this

We started with the question homeowners ask before every repair: should I do this myself, call a handyman, or hire a licensed pro? We used AI-assisted research to pull each answer from primary sources, such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the EPA, OSHA, building codes, state laws, and manufacturer instructions. Separate review passes then tried to prove each claim wrong and re-read the final wording against the sources. Publisher Mark Phaneuf is accountable for the tool. Facts last checked September 28, 2026.

AI output is not an expert review, and this tool is not legal advice. We do not list repair prices, because they vary too much by home and region. Read how we research and our editorial policy. See a mistake? Email [email protected].

Guides to read next

Common questions

Is this legal advice?: No. It is general information to help you decide who to call. License and permit rules differ by state, county, and city. Before you hire someone or start work, check with your state's licensing board and your local building department.
What's the difference between a handyman and a licensed contractor?: A handyman does small repairs. In many states, bigger jobs and trade work such as electrical, plumbing, gas, and heating and cooling need a licensed contractor. Where the line falls differs by state, so check yours.
Why don't you show a handyman rule for my state?: We show a state's handyman rule only after we check its law or licensing board. We list the sources and the date. For other states, use the license lookup we list. If your state has no statewide lookup, ask your city or county building office.
Does the tool save what I type?: No. It runs in your browser. What you type is not sent to us or saved. Your job and state appear only in the page address, so you can bookmark or share an answer.
Where do the answers come from?: Each answer links to its sources, led by government agencies, building codes, state laws, and manufacturer instructions. We used AI-assisted research and separate review passes that tried to prove each claim wrong. Publisher Mark Phaneuf is accountable for the tool.

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