South Carolina Handyman Cap & Advertising Rule
The Key Rule in South Carolina:
Residential jobs over $200 require SC LLR Residential Specialty Contractor registration (up to 3 specialties with no exam under $5,000!).
Residential jobs over $200 require SC LLR Residential Specialty Contractor registration (up to 3 specialties with no exam under $5,000!).
Cheapest Legal Registration Path: SC LLR Residential Specialty Registration
Estimated Year-1 Cost: $100 App Fee + ~$100/yr Surety Bond ($5,000 Surety Bond Only If Job ≥ $5,000)
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 (South Carolina)
1. How much can an unlicensed handyman legally charge in South Carolina?
In South Carolina (S.C. Code § 40-59-20), the unlicensed handyman threshold is: $200 Exemption ($5,000 Residential Specialty Registration). Residential jobs over $200 require SC LLR Residential Specialty Contractor registration (up to 3 specialties with no exam under $5,000!).
2. What is the cheapest way to become a legal bonded handyman/contractor in South Carolina?
The fastest path is SC LLR Residential Specialty Registration, with an application fee of ~$100 and a surety bond cost of ~$100/year ($5,000 Surety Bond Only If Job ≥ $5,000).