First Limit Increase for Handyman Work Since 2005—from $500 to $1,000

A much-needed revision has been made to California Business and Professions Code §7048 that previously dictated handymen could only take projects that had a $500 aggregate total. Effective September 14th, 2024, handymen can now take on construction projects totaling up to $1,000.

Due to rising inflation, project costs for small residential projects oftentime exceed $500. This updated limit increase allows for handymen to take on more projects without the need of obtaining a contractor license. 

Previous handyman work limitations remain the same with this new update, such as not being able to take on jobs that require a building permit or are a part of a larger project that surpasses the $1,000 limit. Projects that require permits or are over the $1,000 limit are required to be completed by a licensed contractor. 

Ultimately, the work completed by a handyman must be considered “casual, minor, and inconsequential” to fall within legal limits.