Hawaii Handyman Exemption update – new limit and rules

Handyman Exemption increase

Effective date – July 10, 2019

Legislation was passed to increase the Handyman Exemption from $1,000 to $1,500. The Handyman Exemption enables persons other than licensed contractors to perform small home improvement jobs and repairs for which the total contract price is less than $1,500 per job. This does not apply to projects which require a building permit, or electrical or plumbing permits.

Additionally, the handyman exemption only applies to labor and materials. “Taxes and all other items” are removed, so the GET will no longer be included as part of the $1,500 exemption. The new law takes effect as of July 10, 2019 and was enacted without the Governor’s signature.

For an explanation of the Handyman Exemption, and the reasoning for the increase, click HERE.