What Can a Handyman Do Without a License in Robertson in Robertson County, Texas?

Texas does not have a single “general contractor” license for typical handyman/home repair work, but Texas DOES license specific trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and certain fire/gas work). In Robertson County (and any city you work in), you may still need local permits and (sometimes) a city business license/registration even if the state does not license your handyman scope.

The magic number in TX: $None. Jobs under $None (labor + materials combined) don't require a contractor license — you can take those as a handyman. Jobs at or above $None require a contractor license. Know your number, know your limit.

✅ What You Can Do Without a License

Painting (interior/exterior) and surface prep on existing structures (no structural changes).
Minor drywall repair/patching, texture, and trim/crown molding installation.
Basic carpentry that does not alter structural members (installing baseboards, shelving, cabinets using existing connections).
Door hardware replacement (knobs, deadbolts) and minor door adjustments (not altering rated fire doors in commercial settings).
Caulking, weatherstripping, and minor window/door repairs that do not change the structural opening.
Flooring installation (vinyl plank/laminate/tile) when it does not involve structural subfloor changes or plumbing relocation.
Fence repair and small exterior repairs (subject to local setbacks/HOA rules and permit triggers for tall fences).
Replacing like-for-like fixtures ONLY where local rules allow and where it does not cross into regulated trade work (many areas still treat plumbing/electrical fixture replacement as licensed/permit work—verify locally).

Common Jobs Handymen Take in Robertson

Based on the TX threshold, handymen in Robertson commonly take on:

Painting (interior/exterior) and surface prep on existing structures (no structural changes).
Minor drywall repair/patching, texture, and trim/crown molding installation.
Basic carpentry that does not alter structural members (installing baseboards, shelving, cabinets using existing connections).
Door hardware replacement (knobs, deadbolts) and minor door adjustments (not altering rated fire doors in commercial settings).
Caulking, weatherstripping, and minor window/door repairs that do not change the structural opening.
Flooring installation (vinyl plank/laminate/tile) when it does not involve structural subfloor changes or plumbing relocation.
Fence repair and small exterior repairs (subject to local setbacks/HOA rules and permit triggers for tall fences).
Replacing like-for-like fixtures ONLY where local rules allow and where it does not cross into regulated trade work (many areas still treat plumbing/electrical fixture replacement as licensed/permit work—verify locally).

⚠️ What Requires a License

Electrical work requiring an electrician license: new circuits, rewiring, panel/service upgrades, most hardwired fixture installs, adding/removing outlets/switches, and any work requiring an electrical permit (TDLR electricians program).
Plumbing system work requiring a plumbing license: installing/altering water supply or drain/vent piping, setting water heaters in many jurisdictions, sewer line work, and most permitted plumbing work (TSBPE).
HVAC (air conditioning & refrigeration) installation/repair/service requiring a TDLR ACR Contractor license (including refrigerant circuit work).
LP gas (propane) installations/service often require separate licensing/registration through the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) depending on the activity and role.
Fire sprinkler, fire alarm, and certain life-safety system work can require State Fire Marshal/other specialized licensing and permits depending on the system and occupancy.
Work that requires a building permit (even if you personally are unlicensed): structural changes, additions, many reroofs, window/door changes affecting framing, and any work governed by adopted codes/inspections.

What to Tell Clients About Your Scope of Work

In TX, you can take jobs under $None (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 — Robertson

Required. Business License / Contractor Registration (city-specific, if adopted)

Setting Up Your Business in TX

To get paid professionally and protect yourself, register your business. LLC filing fee in TX: $300 (one-time). You'll also need a free EIN from the IRS and a business checking account.

Your Next Steps to Operating Legally in Robertson

Step 1: Register your business entity (LLC recommended) with Texas SOS ($300) and set up Texas Comptroller franchise tax filings.
Step 2: If you operate under a trade name, file an Assumed Name (DBA) with the Robertson County Clerk (fee per county schedule).
Step 3: Get general liability insurance (common handyman policies are often $500–$2,500/year depending on revenue and scope).
Step 4: Before offering any electrical/plumbing/HVAC, confirm licensing pathways with TDLR (electric/HVAC) and TSBPE (plumbing) and only perform work you’re legally allowed to do.
Step 5: Identify the exact jobsite city jurisdiction (or unincorporated) and confirm permit/contractor registration requirements with that local building department.

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