What Can a Handyman Do in Washtenaw in Washtenaw County, Michigan?

In Michigan, most “handyman” work is regulated through the state’s Residential Builder and Maintenance & Alteration Contractor (M&A) licensing system when you’re working on residential structures. Michigan does not offer a simple statewide “handyman license,” and there is no broad, dollar-based handyman exemption you can rely on for residential work—if you’re doing repairs/alterations on a residential structure for compensation, you generally need the appropriate state license/registration, and you still must avoid regulated trades (electrical/plumbing/HVAC) unless separately licensed and permitted.

In MI, jobs under $None typically don't require a contractor license. Always verify with your local licensing authority.

✅ What You Can Do Without a License

Painting and staining (interior/exterior) where no building permit or historic-district approval is triggered by the scope
Minor drywall patching and surface repairs (non-structural)
Basic finish carpentry (installing trim, baseboards, interior doors) when not altering structural framing
Cabinet installation/replacement (like-for-like, not altering load-bearing walls, and not relocating plumbing/electrical)
Tile setting and floor covering installation (vinyl/laminate/carpet) not involving structural subfloor changes
Gutter cleaning/repair and minor exterior maintenance (non-structural)
Fence repairs and small exterior repairs where local permit rules do not require a building permit
Replacing plumbing/electrical fixtures only if the local AHJ allows it without licensed trade work and permits (many do not—verify before offering this service)

⚠️ What Requires a License

Contracting to perform residential repair/alteration as a business in Michigan typically requires a Maintenance & Alteration (M&A) registration or a Residential Builder license (depending on scope)
Electrical work such as new circuits, panel work, running new wiring, adding/reconfiguring receptacles/switches, or most troubleshooting/repairs beyond very limited like-for-like replacements (licensed electrician + permit typically required)
Plumbing work such as installing/replacing water heaters, moving/adding supply or drain lines, venting changes, sewer work, or many fixture installs (licensed plumber + permit typically required)
Mechanical/HVAC work such as furnace/AC replacement, duct modifications, gas piping, refrigerant handling (licensed mechanical contractor/technician; EPA 608 for refrigerants; permits/inspections commonly required)
Structural changes: removing/altering load-bearing walls, cutting roof trusses/joists, additions, decks (often permit + may require licensed builder/contractor depending on role and scope)
Roofing and siding projects that meet local permit triggers or when contracted as part of broader residential alteration work (often M&A classification/registration and permits)
Window/door replacements that change rough openings or affect structural framing (permit commonly required; historic district approval may be required in some areas)

State Licensing Rules (MI)

Even where a narrow exemption might apply, it does NOT let you perform licensed trades (electrical/plumbing/mechanical/HVAC) without the required trade license and permits. Local building permits may still be required regardless of any licensing exemption.

Business License — Washtenaw

Not required at the city level.

Permit vs. Contractor License — What's the Difference?

A license/registration (state) is your legal authority to offer/contract certain types of work for compensation (e.g., residential builder or M&A; electrical/plumbing/mechanical trades). A permit (local) is project-specific permission issued by the local building department (the AHJ) that triggers inspections. Even if you are properly licensed/registered—or even if you think you’re exempt—many projects still require permits and inspections.

Important Notes for Washtenaw in Washtenaw County, Michigan Handymen

Insurance: Michigan does not issue a general handyman license, but general liability insurance is commonly required by clients/GCs; workers’ compensation is required if you have employees (verify with Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity).
Advertising/contracting: If you advertise as able to perform regulated trades (electrical/plumbing/HVAC) without the proper trade license, you risk enforcement actions and failed inspections.
Permitting: In Washtenaw County, permit authority varies by city/township (AHJ). Always confirm who issues permits for the jobsite address before bidding.
Consumer protection: Use written contracts, keep change orders in writing, and ensure your license/registration number is properly displayed where required by Michigan rules.

Your Next Steps to Operating Legally in Washtenaw

Step 1: Register your business entity (LLC recommended) with Michigan LARA/Corporations Division ($50 filing + $25 annual statement).
Step 2: If doing residential repair/alteration for compensation, apply for Michigan M&A registration or Residential Builder license (plan on ~$195/year plus exam costs).
Step 3: Obtain general liability insurance (commonly $1M/$2M) and workers’ comp if you have employees.
Step 4: Identify your exact municipality in Washtenaw County (Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti/township) and confirm local permitting, contractor registration, and any home-occupation zoning approval needs with that AHJ.

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