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Handyman Help: FAQ
Can a handyman work without a license in Utah?
Yes, for alteration, repair, remodeling or improvement work on a building when the whole job, labor and materials, is under $7,000, under Utah Code 58-55-305. Plumbing and electrical systems, gas appliances, HVAC, fire sprinklers, alarms and radon systems still need licensed people. The section becomes 58-55-110 on January 1, 2027.
Does a Utah handyman need insurance?
For an exempt job worth more than $3,000 and under $7,000, yes. DOPL's rule R156-55a-305a requires a registration of exemption showing liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per incident and $3,000,000 total, plus workers compensation or a Labor Commission coverage waiver.
Can a handyman replace an outlet or a faucet in Utah?
Through December 31, 2026, Utah Code 58-55-305 says component work such as a faucet, fixture, outlet or switch on an exempt job may be done by a licensed journeyman electrician or plumber, so an unlicensed handyman cannot do it under that exemption. From January 1, 2027, 58-55-110 leaves electrical and plumbing components out of the small project exemption.
What is the new Utah handyman law number?
From January 1, 2027, the exemptions from contractor licensing are in Utah Code 58-55-110. They were in 58-55-305 through December 31, 2026.
Do you need a license to install blinds or flooring in Utah?
No contractor license is needed under DOPL rule R156-55a-301an for drapery, blinds, shutters and other window coverings, or for carpet, vinyl sheet tile or vinyl plank floor installation.
Do I need a license to work on my own house in Utah?
No contractor license is needed for owners and lessees doing work on their own property under Utah Code 58-55-305(1)(j). Building permits are a separate question for your city or county.
How do I check a handyman in Utah?
Search the name or number in DOPL's License Lookup and Verification at secure.utah.gov/llv, or call DOPL at (801) 530-6628.
In this guide: What can a handyman do without a license in Utah? · Handyman jobs over $3,000 in Utah: the insurance registration · Handyman jobs that still need a licensed contractor in Utah · Utah handyman rule changes on January 1, 2027 · Work that never needs a Utah contractor license · Doing the work yourself on your own Utah property · Minor plumbing during an appliance or fixture repair · How to check a Utah contractor license or handyman registration · Before you hire a handyman in Utah · FAQ · Sources
Sources
- Utah State Legislature: Utah Code 58-55-305, Exemptions from licensure (effective May 7, 2025; the Legislature lists it as renumbered January 1, 2027) (checked October 29, 2026)
- Utah Office of Administrative Rules: Utah Admin. Code R156-55a-305a, Exempt Contractors Filing Affirmation of Liability and Workers' Compensation Insurance (rule effective August 7, 2026) (checked October 29, 2026)
- Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL): Handyman (checked October 29, 2026)
- Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL): Apply for a Handyman Registration (checked October 29, 2026)
- Utah State Legislature: Recodification: Title 58, Chapter 55, Utah Construction Trades Licensing Act Amendments (HB 40), effective January 1, 2027, with crosswalk (checked October 29, 2026)
- Utah State Legislature: Utah Code 58-55-110, Exemptions from licensure (effective January 1, 2027; renumbered and amended from 58-55-305 by Chapter 42, 2026 General Session) (checked October 29, 2026)
- Utah Office of Administrative Rules: Utah Admin. Code R156-55a-301an, Activities Exempt from Licensing (rule effective August 7, 2026) (checked October 29, 2026)
- State of Utah (DOPL): License Lookup and Verification (checked October 29, 2026)
- Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL): Contracting Frequently Asked Questions (checked October 29, 2026)
- Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL): Residence Lien Recovery Fund: FAQs for Homeowner or Representing Attorneys (checked October 29, 2026)
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