Massachusetts Handyman Cap & Advertising Rule
The Key Rule in Massachusetts:
Ordinary residential remodeling requires Massachusetts OCABR Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration (no exam); structural work requires a CSL.
Ordinary residential remodeling requires Massachusetts OCABR Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration (no exam); structural work requires a CSL.
Cheapest Legal Registration Path: Massachusetts OCABR HIC Registration (No Exam)
Estimated Year-1 Cost: $150 App Fee + $0 State Bond (HIC Guaranty Fund ($100–$500 based on crew))
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 (Massachusetts)
1. How much can an unlicensed handyman legally charge in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts (M.G.L. c. 142A), the unlicensed handyman threshold is: $500 Casual Exemption before HIC Registration. Ordinary residential remodeling requires Massachusetts OCABR Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration (no exam); structural work requires a CSL.
2. What is the cheapest way to become a legal bonded handyman/contractor in Massachusetts?
The fastest path is Massachusetts OCABR HIC Registration (No Exam), with an application fee of ~$150 and a surety bond cost of ~$0/year (HIC Guaranty Fund ($100–$500 based on crew)).