How to Start a Handyman Business in Tennessee
Home repairs and maintenance in Tennessee.
Tennessee offers a favorable environment for handyman businesses. Jobs under $3,000 require no license statewide. For larger projects ($3K-$25K), only 9 counties require a Home Improvement License. With no state income tax, handymen keep more of their earnings.
Important Notices
Avoid Trade Work
Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC require separate trade licenses regardless of job value. Don't risk fines and liability.
9-County Rule
Home Improvement License required for $3K-$25K jobs in: Bradley, Davidson, Hamilton, Haywood, Knox, Marion, Robertson, Rutherford, Shelby counties.
$25K Contractor Threshold
Jobs over $25,000 require full Contractor License from Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors.
Important Notices
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Tools Hand tools, power tools, ladders | $500 | $3,000 |
| Vehicle Truck or van for tools/materials | $0 | $5,000 |
| LLC Formation Tennessee filing fee | $300 | $350 |
| Insurance General liability annual | $500 | $1,500 |
| Home Improvement Bond $10K bond if licensed | $0 | $200 |
| Marketing Website, cards, truck lettering | $200 | $1,000 |
| Specialty Tools As needed for services offered | $0 | $2,000 |
| Total | $1,500 | $13,050 |
Licenses & Limits
LLC Registration
Tennessee Secretary of State, $300/year annual report
3-5 days
Business License
County business license required
1-2 weeks
Home Improvement License
Required for $3K-$25K jobs in 9 counties
2-4 weeks
Surety Bond
$10,000 bond for Home Improvement License
1-2 days
General Liability Insurance
Recommended for all handymen
1 day
Licenses & Limits
Nashville (Davidson)
715,000Home Improvement License required $3K-$25K, highest rates ($55-85/hr), rapid growth
Memphis (Shelby)
633,000Home Improvement License required, mid-range rates ($45-70/hr), older housing stock
Knoxville (Knox)
192,000Home Improvement License required, growing market ($45-65/hr)
Chattanooga (Hamilton)
181,000Home Improvement License required, outdoor tourism rentals ($45-65/hr)
Handyman Costs in Other States
View all 50 statesTennessee Handyman Tips
Stay Under $3K
No License Counties
Property Manager Network
Honey-Do Lists
Real Estate Prep
Written Contracts
Tennessee Handyman Tips
Define Your Services
Basic carpentry, painting, drywall, minor repairs. Avoid electrical, plumbing, and HVAC - those require trade licenses.
Understand the Limits
Under $3,000: No license needed statewide. $3K-$25K: Home Improvement License in 9 counties. Over $25K: Contractor license required.
Register Your Business
File LLC with Tennessee Secretary of State ($300). Get county business license.
Get Insurance
General liability insurance protects against property damage and injury claims.
Get Licensed (If Needed)
If working in Davidson, Shelby, Hamilton, Knox, Rutherford, or 4 other counties on jobs $3K-$25K, get Home Improvement License.
Build Your Toolkit
Invest in quality tools for the services you offer. Basic hand tools, power tools, safety equipment.
Set Your Pricing
Nashville: $55-85/hour. Memphis: $45-70/hour. Material markup 15-25% standard.
Market Locally
Nextdoor, Google Business Profile, yard signs. Build referral network with real estate agents.