What Can a Handyman Do Without a License in Conway, South Carolina?

Conway is in Horry County, South Carolina. For many small “handyman” style jobs, South Carolina does not require a state contractor license if the total project value stays under the state contractor licensing threshold, but trade work (electrical/plumbing/HVAC) is separately licensed and is not covered by the handyman exemption. You will typically still need (1) a City of Conway business license and (2) building permits for certain work even when you are exempt from state contractor licensing.

The magic number in SC: $5000. Jobs under $5000 (labor + materials combined) don't require a contractor license — you can take those as a handyman. Jobs at or above $5000 require a contractor license. Know your number, know your limit.

✅ What You Can Do Without a License

Small repair/maintenance jobs under $5,000 total project value (labor + materials) that do not require a licensed trade (researched threshold: $5,000).
Interior/exterior painting (non-lead abatement) and patch/paint touch-ups.
Minor drywall repair (small patches), trim/baseboard replacement, and caulking/grouting.
Basic carpentry that is non-structural (installing shelving, replacing cabinet hardware, minor door adjustments).
Fence/gate repairs that do not involve structural changes requiring a building permit (permit rules can still apply).
Replacing faucets, toilets, or sinks only if local rules allow homeowner/handyman replacement without licensed plumbing (often a permit/inspection or licensed plumber is required—verify locally).
Replacing light fixtures/switches only where allowed by local code enforcement (many jurisdictions require a licensed electrician—verify locally).
Pressure washing, gutter cleaning, and minor exterior maintenance.

Common Jobs Handymen Take in Conway

Based on the SC threshold, handymen in Conway commonly take on:

Small repair/maintenance jobs under $5,000 total project value (labor + materials) that do not require a licensed trade (researched threshold: $5,000).
Interior/exterior painting (non-lead abatement) and patch/paint touch-ups.
Minor drywall repair (small patches), trim/baseboard replacement, and caulking/grouting.
Basic carpentry that is non-structural (installing shelving, replacing cabinet hardware, minor door adjustments).
Fence/gate repairs that do not involve structural changes requiring a building permit (permit rules can still apply).
Replacing faucets, toilets, or sinks only if local rules allow homeowner/handyman replacement without licensed plumbing (often a permit/inspection or licensed plumber is required—verify locally).
Replacing light fixtures/switches only where allowed by local code enforcement (many jurisdictions require a licensed electrician—verify locally).
Pressure washing, gutter cleaning, and minor exterior maintenance.

⚠️ What Requires a License

Any project where the total cost is $5,000 or more (labor + materials) that falls under South Carolina contractor licensing jurisdiction (verify classification with LLR).
Electrical contracting (running new circuits, panel work, service upgrades, new receptacles where wiring changes, generators) — requires proper SC electrical contractor licensing and permits/inspection.
Plumbing contracting (new water lines/drains/vents, water heater installs where regulated, sewer/water service work) — requires SC plumbing contractor licensing and permits/inspection.
HVAC/mechanical work (install/replace HVAC systems, ductwork modifications, refrigerant line work) — requires SC mechanical/HVAC contractor licensing; EPA refrigerant handling rules also apply.
Gas piping and gas appliance connections beyond very limited, code-allowed connector swaps — commonly requires properly licensed mechanical/plumbing contractor and inspection.
Structural work (altering load-bearing walls, significant framing changes, roof structure changes) — typically requires permits and may require licensed contractors depending on project value/scope.
Roofing and major exterior envelope work can trigger permitting and licensing scrutiny depending on cost and scope.

What to Tell Clients About Your Scope of Work

In SC, you can take jobs under $5000 (labor + materials) without a contractor license. When a client asks, be straightforward: for jobs under this threshold, you're operating legally as a handyman. For larger projects, refer them to a licensed contractor or get licensed before bidding that work.

Business License — Conway

Required. City of Conway Business License

Setting Up Your Business in SC

To get paid professionally and protect yourself, register your business. LLC filing fee in SC: $110 (one-time). You'll also need a free EIN from the IRS and a business checking account.

Your Next Steps to Operating Legally in Conway

Step 1: Form your business entity (LLC optional but common) — SC LLC filing fee is $110 with the Secretary of State.
Step 2: Register for tax accounts as needed (SC Department of Revenue: withholding, sales/use tax if you sell taxable items).
Step 3: Apply for a City of Conway business license under the correct classification (handyman/home repair/contractor) and confirm your fee basis (minimum + gross receipts).
Step 4: Decide your scope: if you will take jobs at/above $5,000 or do regulated trades, start the appropriate SC LLR licensing path (classification + exams as required).
Step 5: Get insurance (general liability; add workers’ comp if you hire).
Step 6: Confirm permitting rules with the City of Conway (or Horry County for unincorporated jobs) before you bid—especially for water heaters, decks, electrical/plumbing/HVAC.

Research generated by AI. Verify all requirements with your local licensing authority before making business decisions.