In Illinois, a handyman can take general repairs such as drywall, doors, trim, painting and mounting. Plumbing and roofing need a state license, and electrical work is regulated by each city or village. Residential jobs of $500 or more also fall under the Home Repair and Remodeling Act.
What a handyman can take on
Illinois has no statewide handyman license. Housecall Pro's Illinois handyman licensing guide (September 2026) notes that the state licenses roofing and plumbing, and that most cities and counties require a local business license or contractor registration.
That leaves general repair and install work to a handyman: drywall patches, door and lock adjustments, trim and carpentry, painting and touch-ups, caulking and weatherstripping, gutter cleaning, TV and shelf mounting, and furniture assembly.
Plumbing: state license required
The Illinois Plumbing License Law, 225 ILCS 320/3 says all plumbing "shall be performed only by plumbers licensed" under the Act.
The main exception is for owners. An owner who lives in a single-family home can do plumbing work on that home, subject to the state plumbing code and inspection. The same section says that owner cannot hire anyone other than a licensed plumber to help.
If a job involves the water supply or drain lines, such as a water heater or a moved drain, call a licensed plumber.
Roofing: state license required
Roofing contractors are licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) under the Roofing Industry Licensing Act, 225 ILCS 335.
The Act's definitions section, 225 ILCS 335/2, describes a limited license for residential properties of 8 units or fewer and an unlimited license that also covers commercial and industrial work.
The Illinois Attorney General states that "roofers must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation." Check the license number on IDFPR's online license lookup before roof work starts.
Electrical: regulated locally
Illinois does not issue a statewide electrician license. Electrical licensing is left to local governments, as Housecall Pro's Illinois electrical licensing guide explains.
The Illinois Municipal Code lets a municipality "require the registration of electrical contractors" (65 ILCS 5/11-33-1, via Justia).
The rule for your home depends on your city or village. Ask the local building department whether a job needs a permit or a licensed or registered electrician.
The Home Repair and Remodeling Act
Separate from licensing, the Home Repair and Remodeling Act, 815 ILCS 513 sets paperwork rules for residential repair work.
- Scope: The Act's definition of home repair and remodeling excludes maintenance, service or repairs under $500 (Sec. 10). It covers single-family homes and buildings with 6 or fewer apartments, among other dwellings.
- Pamphlet: For contracts over $1,000, the contractor must give the customer the pamphlet "Home Repair: Know Your Consumer Rights," and the customer signs an acknowledgment that they received it (Sec. 20).
- Written contract: Before starting work over $1,000, the contractor must provide a contract that states the total price, any charge for an estimate, and the contractor's business name and address (Sec. 15).
- Insurance: The Illinois Attorney General notes that contractors must carry minimum insurance for property damage, bodily injury and improper home repair.
Who to call, by job
- Drywall, doors, trim, painting, caulking, mounting, assembly: a handyman.
- Water supply lines, drains, water heaters: a licensed plumber.
- Roof repair or replacement: an IDFPR-licensed roofing contractor.
- New circuits, panel work, wiring changes: an electrician licensed or registered with your municipality.
This article is general information, not legal advice. For a specific project, check with your local building department.
FAQ
Does Illinois license handymen?
No. Illinois has no statewide handyman license. Cities and villages may require a local business license or contractor registration.
Can a handyman do plumbing repairs in Illinois?
225 ILCS 320/3 says all plumbing shall be performed only by licensed plumbers. The exception is an owner-occupant working on their own single-family home. For water supply or drain work, hire a licensed plumber.
When do I need a written contract?
Under 815 ILCS 513/15, a contractor must give you a written contract before starting home repair or remodeling work over $1,000.
How does Enhaus handle plumbing, electrical and roofing?
Enhaus refers plumbing, electrical and roofing to licensed independent contractors. Enhaus does the general handyman items.
Have a list of repairs on the North Shore? Send it through the contact page or text photos to (847) 877-1877.
