Terms Of Service

In Oregon, HandymanRedmond.com By Trenton Bahr is a unlicensed contractor AND HAS LIMITATIONS on electrical, plumbing and other construction tasks that can perform. Here's a breakdown of what type of services maybe allowed:

Electrical Tasks

Unlicensed handymen can only perform very basic electrical tasks that do not require a permit or affect safety. These include:

  • Replacing broken or damaged electrical outlets, light switches, and light fixtures with like-for-like replacements.

  • Replacing approved fuses.

  • Replacing light bulbs and fluorescent tubes.

  • Installing coaxial cable for cable TV (must use proper insulated wire).

  • Replacing an existing doorbell or similar low-voltage systems.

Any work involving new wiring, additional outlets, or alterations to permanent electrical systems requires a licensed electrician and a permit.

Beyond Basic Tasks Contact: Service Electrician "Jonoathan Dieter" 541-525-3288 www.cochraininc.com

Plumbing Tasks

Unlicensed handymen are similarly restricted in plumbing work. Permitted tasks include:

  • Replacing existing fixtures like showerheads or faucets, provided it does not involve altering the plumbing system.

  • Minor maintenance tasks such as unclogging drains or replacing washers in faucets.

However, any work involving new installations, pipe modifications, or projects impacting health and safety (e.g., water heaters, sewer lines) requires a licensed plumber.

Beyond Basic Tasks Contact: No Preferred contractor yet.

Limitations on Services of Unlicensed Handymen in Oregon

Oregon has relatively strict regulations regarding construction and handyman work performed without a contractor's license. While there is no specific "handyman license" in the state, there are clear boundaries on what unlicensed individuals can legally do. These limitations aim to protect consumers while allowing for minor repairs and maintenance to be performed without full contractor licensing.

Financial Limitations

The most significant restriction for unlicensed handymen in Oregon is the financial threshold for projects. According to Oregon state law, an unlicensed person can only work on projects where the total contract value is less than $1,000.This cap includes all costs - both labor and materials combined. This effectively restricts unlicensed handymen to smaller jobs and minor repairs only.

Any work exceeding this $1,000 threshold requires proper contractor licensing through the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB). This financial limitation is strictly enforced and represents one of the most significant constraints on unlicensed handyman work in the state1.

Nature of Permitted Work

Beyond the financial limitations, Oregon law specifies that unlicensed handyman work must be "casual, minor, or inconsequential" in nature14. This terminology is important as it further restricts the scope of permissible work. Specifically, this means:

  • The work cannot affect the health or safety of the occupant or owner

  • No structural modifications are permitted

  • Work involving potentially hazardous materials such as asbestos or lead is prohibited

  • The work must generally be limited to simple repairs and maintenance1

Some examples of tasks that fit within these parameters for unlicensed handymen include:

  • Cleaning gutters

  • Cleaning debris

  • Power washing

  • Other minimal and inconsequential tasks

Services Requiring Licensure

Most construction and repair services in Oregon require proper licensing. An unlicensed handyman cannot legally perform the following types of work:

  • Major Plumbing

  • Major Electrical

  • Heating and air conditioning

  • Roofing

  • Major Painting

  • Siding

  • Carpentry That Adds to Home or exterior property.

  • New Concrete work

  • Flooring installation

  • Tree services

  • Land development

  • Home inspection

  • Installation of manufactured dwellings

  • Attached appliance repair

  • Any other significant construction or repair services

These restrictions effectively limit unlicensed handymen to very minor tasks that fall below the $1,000 threshold and that don't require specialized knowledge or skills that could impact safety.

Liability Considerations

It's important to note that both the unlicensed handyman and the person hiring them may face legal consequences. Oregon law states that anyone who knowingly uses the services of an unlicensed contractor is "personally, jointly and severally liable" along with the unlicensed contractor5. This creates a significant risk for both parties in such arrangements.

Business Registration Requirements

Even when operating within the permitted limitations, an unlicensed handyman who regularly performs work should still consider obtaining a business license. While potentially avoidable for those only doing occasional weekend jobs, establishing a proper business license is recommended for anyone regularly providing handyman services, even if they remain under the $1,000 threshold for individual projects. Business name By Trenton Bahr.