Indiana Handyman Cap & Advertising Rule
The Key Rule in Indiana:
No state handyman license (except plumbing), but jobs over $150 require a written contract meeting IC 24-5-11.
No state handyman license (except plumbing), but jobs over $150 require a written contract meeting IC 24-5-11.
Cheapest Legal Registration Path: Local County/City Contractor Registration + GL Insurance
Estimated Year-1 Cost: $125 App Fee + ~$100/yr Surety Bond ($10,000 Local License Bond (Indy/Marion Co.))
Note on Project Quotes: All 50-state handyman cap rules, permit calculators, and checklists are free nationwide. Direct contractor project estimates are available in Cowlitz & Clark County, WA only; out-of-area visitors can compare national pros via Angi, Thumbtack, or HomeAdvisor on our main hub.
Frequently Asked Questions (Indiana)
1. How much can an unlicensed handyman legally charge in Indiana?
In Indiana (Indiana Home Improvement Contracts Act (IC 24-5-11)), the unlicensed handyman threshold is: No Statewide Cap (Licensed by City/County — e.g. Indianapolis/Lake Co.). No state handyman license (except plumbing), but jobs over $150 require a written contract meeting IC 24-5-11.
2. What is the cheapest way to become a legal bonded handyman/contractor in Indiana?
The fastest path is Local County/City Contractor Registration + GL Insurance, with an application fee of ~$125 and a surety bond cost of ~$100/year ($10,000 Local License Bond (Indy/Marion Co.)).