Start a Handyman Business in Illinois
No state handyman license, but Chicago has local requirements—know the rules.
Illinois doesn't require a state handyman license for minor repairs. Chicago has additional business licensing requirements. Strong demand in aging Chicago housing stock and suburban homes. The challenge: work requiring permits needs licensed contractors. Stay within handyman scope for minor repairs, assembly, and maintenance. Huge market in Chicago's bungalow belt and suburban communities.
Important Notices
No State Handyman License
Illinois doesn't require handyman license for minor work. Work requiring permits needs licensed contractors.
Chicago Business License Required
Operating in Chicago requires BACP business license. Suburbs have their own requirements.
Know Your Limits
Stick to minor repairs. Electrical panels, plumbing rough-in, structural work require licensed contractors.
Important Notices
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Tools Hand and power tools | $500 | $1,500 |
| Power Tools Drill, saw, etc. | $500 | $2,000 |
| Ladder Multi-position | $150 | $400 |
| Vehicle Truck recommended | $0 | $5,000 |
| IL LLC Filing Secretary of State | $150 | $150 |
| Chicago Business License If Chicago operations | $250 | $250 |
| Liability Insurance Essential | $500 | $1,200 |
| Total | $2,050 | $10,500 |
Licenses & Limits
IL LLC Formation
1-2 weeks
Chicago Business License
Required in Chicago
1-2 weeks
General Liability Insurance
Same day
IL Revenue Registration
Tax registration
1 week
Licenses & Limits
Chicago
2.7MAging housing stock. Bungalow belt, vintage apartments. Strong demand. $60-85/hour.
Chicago Suburbs
5M+Suburban homes. $50-75/hour. Property managers need reliable help.
Naperville
150KAffluent suburb. Larger homes. Good market.
Handyman Costs in Other States
View all 50 statesIllinois Handyman Tips
Chicago Bungalows
Chicago has 80,000+ bungalows built 1910-1940. They need constant maintenance. Specialize in vintage home repairs.
Property Manager Relationships
Chicago rental market is huge. Property managers need reliable handymen. One relationship provides steady work.
Building Manager Access
Chicago high-rises have building managers who refer handymen to residents. Build these relationships.
Illinois Handyman Tips
Understand Scope Limits
Illinois handyman work is minor repairs not requiring permits. Electrical, plumbing, structural need licensed contractors.
Register LLC
Illinois LLC $150. Simple filing with Secretary of State.
Get Chicago License
Operating in Chicago requires BACP business license ($250).
Get Insurance
Liability insurance essential. Chicago buildings may require proof.
Set Pricing
Chicago: $60-85/hour. Suburbs: $50-75/hour. Minimum service call $75-100.
Target Chicago Housing
Chicago bungalows and vintage housing stock need constant maintenance.