What Can a Handyman Do Without a License in Concord, New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has no state general contractor license requirement, making it one of the most permissive states for handymen. However, you must register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the state ($100 fee) and obtain a Concord building permit for significant work. Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and gas fitting work absolutely require separate state licenses from the OPLC regardless of project size. Concord relies on building permits rather than a separate business license, and Merrimack County imposes no additional licensing requirements.
✅ What You Can Do Without a License
- General carpentry and framing (non-structural)
- Drywall installation and repair
- Interior and exterior painting
- Basic tile work and flooring installation (non-structural)
- Door and window installation (non-structural)
- Deck building and repair (non-structural)
- Trim work and molding installation
- General handyman repairs and maintenance (minor repairs to existing structures)
Common Jobs Handymen Take in Concord
Based on the NH threshold, handymen in Concord commonly take on:
- Drywall installation and repair
- Interior and exterior painting
- Basic tile work and flooring installation (non-structural)
- Door and window installation (non-structural)
- Deck building and repair (non-structural)
- Trim work and molding installation
- General handyman repairs and maintenance (minor repairs to existing structures)
⚠️ What Requires a License
- Any electrical work (outlet installation, fixture changes, panel work) — requires OPLC Electrician's License
- Any plumbing work (fixture installation, pipe work, water heater replacement) — requires OPLC Plumber's License
- HVAC system installation or repair — requires OPLC Mechanical License
- Gas fitting or fuel oil work — requires OPLC Gas Fitter License
- Asbestos abatement or lead-based paint removal — requires OPLC Asbestos/Lead License
- Structural modifications or load-bearing wall work — requires licensed contractor and building permit
- Roofing work (in some jurisdictions) — verify with Concord Building Department
Business License — Concord
Not required at the city level.
Setting Up Your Business in NH
To get paid professionally and protect yourself, register your business. LLC filing fee in NH: $102 (one-time). You'll also need a free EIN from the IRS and a business checking account.
Your Next Steps to Operating Legally in Concord
- Step 1: Form an LLC with the New Hampshire Secretary of State ($102 online filing fee). This provides liability protection and is strongly recommended.
- Step 2: Obtain general liability insurance with minimum $25,000 per occurrence coverage.
- Step 3: Register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the OPLC ($100 fee). Submit proof of insurance and receive your registration certificate.
- Step 4: Post your registration number on all contracts and advertising.
- Step 5: For each project in Concord, contact the Building Department at (603) 225-8580 to determine if a building permit is required. Submit permit applications through the online portal at concordnh.gov/1888/Citizen-Self-Service-Permits.
- Step 6: If you perform electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or gas fitting work, obtain the appropriate OPLC trade license before performing any work.
- Step 7: Verify zoning compliance with the Concord Planning Division if operating from a home address.
- Step 8: Maintain annual compliance: renew your Home Improvement Contractor registration by April 1 each year and keep liability insurance current.
Licensing rules and fees change over time, so this information may be out of date. Verify all requirements with your local licensing authority before making business decisions.