HANDYMAN BUSINESS LAUNCH CHECKLIST
From https://www.brix.so/start/handyman (updated 2026-10-24)
Print it, tick it off, keep it in the truck.

DAY 1

[ ] Look up your state's handyman dollar limit and whether a permit or a helper voids it
[ ] Write your no-go list: work that needs a permit or a licensed trade (panels, gas, new circuits, structural)
[ ] Register the business and get a free EIN from the IRS
[ ] Get general liability and tools-and-equipment insurance before the first paid job
[ ] Open a business bank account and a separate card for materials
[ ] Set a minimum service charge and a trip fee for out-of-area jobs
[ ] Get a business phone number and put it on the truck, cards and Google profile
[ ] If you're unlicensed, put the required disclosure on every ad, card and listing

MONTH 3

[ ] Compare your quoted hours with actual hours on every job and fix your slowest job types
[ ] Turn your five most common jobs into flat prices
[ ] Mark up materials and charge for supply-house runs
[ ] Ask every happy customer for a Google review the same day
[ ] Answer or text back every missed call within minutes
[ ] Build a list of licensed electricians and plumbers you refer permit work to
[ ] Set aside money for taxes every week

YEAR 1

[ ] Decide whether to get a contractor license so you can take bigger and permitted jobs
[ ] Add workers' comp before your first helper starts, and check your state's licensing rule for hiring
[ ] Raise prices for new customers once your calendar is booked two weeks out
[ ] Offer a seasonal maintenance visit or home checkup to past customers
[ ] Pay quarterly estimated taxes on time
[ ] Review which lead sources brought repeat customers, and spend there

Dollar limits, permit rules and license requirements vary by state and city.
Check your state contractor board and local building department. This
checklist is not legal or tax advice.

Questions? Call or text (518) 588-1122, or book 15 minutes:
https://cal.com/ethanharris/15min