If you’re thinking about hiring a handyman in Ontario or becoming one yourself, you might be wondering: Do handymen need to be licensed in Ontario? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Unlike trades such as electrical work or plumbing, general handyman services often do not require a formal license. However, certain tasks do come with licensing requirements. In this article, we’ll break down what handymen can and can’t do without a license, how regulations differ depending on the type of work, and why hiring a skilled handyman is still a smart choice.

Understanding Handyman Licensing in Ontario

In Ontario, there is no single “handyman license” that covers all handyman services. This means that if you’re performing general tasks like furniture assembly, minor repairs, painting, or installing shelves, you typically don’t need a license. However, once you start working on more specialized trades—such as electrical, plumbing, gas fitting, or HVAC—you’ll need proper certification.

The province regulates these specialized trades to ensure safety and compliance with the Ontario Building Code and other legal standards. So, while a handyman can fix drywall or install flooring, they cannot legally install new wiring or plumbing systems without the proper credentials.

Trades That Require Licensing in Ontario

If you’re hiring a handyman or considering working as one, it’s important to know which tasks require a licensed professional. Here are some trades that require licensing in Ontario:

1. Electrical Work

Any work that involves wiring, panel upgrades, or major electrical installations must be performed by a licensed electrician. The Ontario College of Trades regulates this industry, and working without proper certification can result in hefty fines.

2. Plumbing

Plumbing is another regulated trade in Ontario. Installing, repairing, or replacing water pipes and drainage systems requires a Red Seal-certified plumber. Handymen can fix minor plumbing issues like replacing faucets or installing a new toilet, but anything beyond that should be left to a licensed plumber.

3. Gas Fitting & HVAC Work

If a job involves working with natural gas, such as installing a gas stove or water heater, a licensed Gas Technician (G1 or G2) is required. Similarly, any heating, ventilation, or air conditioning (HVAC) work must be done by a certified technician.

4. Structural Renovations

If a handyman is planning to modify a home’s structure, such as removing load-bearing walls, major renovations, or significant foundation work, a licensed contractor or structural engineer should be involved.

What Handymen Can Legally Do Without a License

While certain trades require licensing, handymen can still offer a wide range of useful services without formal certification. Here are some common tasks that fall within a handyman’s scope of work:

• Drywall repair & installation
• Painting (interior & exterior)
• Furniture assembly
• Deck & fence repairs
• Gutter cleaning & maintenance
• Tile installation & grouting
• Flooring installation (laminate, vinyl, hardwood, etc.)
• Caulking & weather stripping
• TV wall mounting
• Door lock installation

These services do not require a special license in Ontario, but handymen should still follow building codes and best practices to ensure quality work.

Do Handymen Need Insurance in Ontario?

Even though handymen in Ontario don’t need a license for most services, having proper insurance is highly recommended. Liability insurance protects both the handyman and the homeowner in case of accidents or property damage. Many professional handymen carry:

• General liability insurance – Covers accidental property damage or injuries during a job.
• Workers’ compensation – If a handyman has employees, this protects them in case of job-related injuries.
• Tools & equipment insurance – Covers lost or stolen tools needed for the job.

Hiring an insured handyman gives homeowners peace of mind, knowing they are protected from unexpected costs or damages.

How to Find a Reliable Handyman in Ontario

Since licensing isn’t required for most handyman services, choosing the right professional comes down to experience, reputation, and customer reviews. Here are some tips to ensure you hire a trustworthy handyman:

1. Check Reviews & Ratings – Look for customer reviews on Google, Facebook, or trusted local directories.
2. Ask for References – A reputable handyman should have past clients who can vouch for their work.
3. Request a Written Quote – Get a detailed breakdown of costs to avoid surprises later.
4. Confirm Insurance Coverage – Ask if they carry liability insurance for protection.
5. Look for Experience – Choose someone with a strong track record in the type of work you need.

Why Hire a Professional Handyman?

Hiring a professional handyman saves time, money, and frustration. Many homeowners take on DIY projects only to find themselves overwhelmed or making costly mistakes. A skilled handyman has the right tools, expertise, and efficiency to complete jobs correctly the first time.

For reliable handyman services in Ontario, consider Handyman Milton. Whether you need furniture assembly, painting, drywall repair, or other handyman tasks, we provide high-quality services at affordable rates.