Minor Work & Handyman Compliance in District of Columbia
Indexation gate: passedDistrict of Columbia minor work and handyman compliance: Under 17 DCMR Chapter 8, any entity contracting residential improvements or repairs for compensation must hold a Home Improvement Contractor Basic Business License, maintain Clean Hands certification, and post a $25,000 surety bond. Minor non-structural maintenance not requiring building permits is exempt from trade permits, but commercial contracting without a license remains prohibited.
Key Requirements & Legal Mandates
Clean Hands Certification Requirement (D.C. Code § 47-2862)
dc:statute:clean-hands-47-2862Under the Clean Hands Act (D.C. Code § 47-2862), no license or permit may be issued to any contractor or business that owes more than $100 in outstanding taxes, fees, or penalties to the District of Columbia government.
Notes: Must be certified online prior to BBL issuance or building permit approval.
Mandatory Workers' Compensation Insurance (D.C. Code Title 32)
dc:statute:workers-comp-title-32Under D.C. Official Code Title 32 Chapter 15, all employers in the District of Columbia employing one or more employees must secure statutory workers' compensation insurance.
Mandatory Home Improvement Contractor Basic Business License
dc:regulation:dcmr-17-8Under 17 DCMR Chapter 8, no person or business entity may engage in home improvement contracting, remodeling, or residential repair in the District of Columbia without an active Basic Business License endorsed for Home Improvement and an active surety bond.
Notes: Violations subject to civil fines and criminal prosecution under D.C. Code § 47-2851.
Applicable License Classifications
Home Improvement Contractor (HIC)
dc:regulation:dcmr-17-8Basic Business License required for any person or entity contracting to repair, remodel, alter, or modernize residential property in the District of Columbia. Requires a $25,000 surety bond and Clean Hands certification.
Guidance: Cosmetic maintenance not requiring building permits may be performed without permits, but contracting residential repairs for hire requires a Home Improvement BBL.