What Can a Handyman Do Without a License in Salem, New Hampshire?
New Hampshire does not require a general state contractor license for handymen or general contractors at any dollar threshold. Instead, the state relies on trade-specific licensing (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, gas fitting) and local permitting. Handymen can perform general carpentry, painting, drywall, and similar work without state licensure, but must register as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) with the NH Office of Professional Licensure & Certification for $100 and obtain local permits from Salem. Trade work (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) requires separate state licenses regardless of project value.
✅ What You Can Do Without a License
- General carpentry work (framing, trim, decking, cabinet installation)
- Interior and exterior painting
- Drywall installation, repair, and finishing
- Flooring installation (wood, laminate, vinyl, tile)
- Basic tile work and backsplash installation
- Door and window installation (non-structural)
- Deck building and repair
- Weatherproofing and caulking
- General handyman repairs and maintenance (at any dollar value, provided no trade licenses are triggered)
Common Jobs Handymen Take in Salem
Based on the NH threshold, handymen in Salem commonly take on:
- General carpentry work (framing, trim, decking, cabinet installation)
- Interior and exterior painting
- Drywall installation, repair, and finishing
- Flooring installation (wood, laminate, vinyl, tile)
- Basic tile work and backsplash installation
- Door and window installation (non-structural)
- Deck building and repair
- Weatherproofing and caulking
⚠️ What Requires a License
- Any electrical work beyond simple fixture changes (outlet replacement, light fixture installation) — requires Master or Journeyman Electrician license
- Any plumbing work beyond simple fixture replacement (toilet, faucet) — requires Master or Journeyman Plumber license
- HVAC system installation, repair, or maintenance — requires Mechanical Business Entity license and licensed Service Technician/Gas Fitter
- Gas line installation or repair — requires Gas Fitter license
- Asbestos abatement or removal — requires Asbestos Abatement Contractor license
- Lead abatement or removal (residential or child care facilities) — requires Lead Abatement Contractor license
- Structural modifications or load-bearing wall work — may require engineer review and licensed contractor
- Work affecting electrical panels or service upgrades — requires licensed electrician
Business License — Salem
Required. Building Permit / Home Occupation Permit (varies by work type)
Setting Up Your Business in NH
To get paid professionally and protect yourself, register your business. LLC filing fee in NH: $100 (one-time). You'll also need a free EIN from the IRS and a business checking account.
Your Next Steps to Operating Legally in Salem
- Step 1: Form an LLC (optional but recommended). File a Certificate of Formation with the NH Secretary of State ($100 filing fee). Obtain an EIN from the IRS.
- Step 2: Register as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) with the NH OPLC ($100 registration fee). Obtain general liability insurance with minimum $25,000 per occurrence coverage and name the State of New Hampshire as certificate holder.
- Step 3: If performing trade work (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, gas), apply for the appropriate state trade license(s) through the OPLC. Fees vary by trade ($100-$310+).
- Step 4: Contact Salem Building & Inspectional Services at (603) 890-2020 to obtain the current building permit fee schedule and confirm whether a home occupation permit is required if operating from a residential address.
- Step 5: Obtain a building permit from Salem for each project before starting work. Permit fees vary by project type and cost.
- Step 6: File an annual report with the NH Secretary of State by April 1 each year ($100 fee) to maintain your LLC in good standing.
- Step 7: Renew your HIC registration and any trade licenses as required (renewal schedules vary by license type).
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.