Public Service Post
Important Information About Handyman Services
Provided by the West Pasco Region of Seniors V. Crime, a special project of the Florida Attorney General's Office.
BEWARE OF ANYONE CLAIMING TO BE A LICENSED HANDYMAN.
The State of Florida does not license a handyman (or handywoman). Local governments (City / County) can no longer require licensing of a handyman within their jurisdictional boundaries outside the authority of the State of Florida's Department of Business and Professional Regulation as of July 1, 2024.
A CONTRACTOR, on the other hand, must be licensed. Rules restrict a HANDYMAN as to what they can and cannot do, most often involving anything requiring a permit, structural changes, or exceeding $2,500. Most general painting, landscaping, DIY-type electrical, plumbing, or general carpentry would not be restricted.
Any work involving plumbing, electrical, HVAC, structural changes which often require a permit, or projects over a certain value generally requires a licensed contractor. The plumbing and electrical restrictions refer to "significant" work, not simple faucet installation or hanging a ceiling fan, for example. This is addressed in Florida Statute 489.
If you question whether anyone has a specific license for their profession, it is a matter of public record:
myfloridalicense.com/wl11.aspIf you have had a bad experience with a handyman or contractor — failing to pay suppliers resulting in a lien on your home, taking money and not performing the work, or being paid in full and not finishing the work — you may file a complaint through the Office of the Attorney General. This does not apply if you are simply displeased with the quality of their work.
There is NO COST TO YOU for filing a complaint and getting assistance.
File a complaint