Work That Requires a License
Always Licensed
- Electrical: All electrical work
- Plumbing: All plumbing and gas work
- Air conditioning: Refrigerant handling
- Structural: Load-bearing walls, foundations
Licensed Above Thresholds
- Building work: Over $5,000-20,000 depending on state
- Waterproofing: Licensed in most states
Why It Matters
- Safety: Incorrect work can cause fires, floods, structural failure
- Insurance: Unlicensed work may void your home insurance
- Selling: Problems found in building inspection
- Legal: Both you and the tradesperson can be fined
DIY vs Professional
You CAN do yourself:
- Painting (non-structural)
- Basic garden landscaping
- Installing flat-pack furniture
- Replacing tap washers (in some states)
You CAN'T do yourself:
- Electrical work
- Plumbing (beyond washers)
- Gas fitting
- Structural modifications