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From what I gather in Virginia, you need to be a licensed tradesman if you intend to work on electrical, plumbing, or hvac systems. If you are a licensed tradesman, you still need a contractors business license to bid any jobs over $1,000. So the way I read this, if the poster had the tradesman license (lets say for hvac), he could repair and work on hvac for up to $1,000.

For simple "handyman" stuff, like painting, building a deck, drywall work, etc you wouldn't need a contractors license unless you accepted jobs over $1,000.

However the municipality may still require you to obtain a local business license.

This is how I started out, however I found out that the supply houses only sell to those who are licensed with the state contractor board. So I got my contractors license.

I have discovered that it pays to go legit anyway, the license in combination with the state sales and use certificate makes it easy for me to obtain wholesale prices on parts and supplies. Some may be able to work "off the books", but they will mostly likely be shunned by local supply houses. Making your only recourse to ebay everything, and I'm sure that can be a pain.

I still advertise on CL, but in case I get a friendly visit from the authorities, I have my licenses and insurance information available.

Yup, very well said, if you want a registered professional engineer who is licensed, bonded and has worked on everything from window units to 1000+ ton chillers then you can call me. If not then don't bother me

Well said. I just hate for the general population risking their lives and property. That's just life.


Lets go, burnin daylight.

Originally Posted by corny

These guys usually take care of themselves. I see no reason to try and rat someone out like this because while you may feel that he is cutting into your cap changing business because what happens when you knock him out of work is that we all get to support him with our tax dollars or he gets driven into a life of crime.

Most folks with businesses that I know of started out side jobbing...working without a license, insurance etc..... and those that said they didnt are usually.... lying.... not all.... but about 99.9999 percent of them...lol

They shall reap what they sow... and if you are a genuine decent repairman..... someone like this really doesnt cut into your business.

Agreed. CL is notorious for bottom dollar price shoppers. There are also many ads there for "buy your furnace or central air below wholesale" ads.

Are those with established, REPUTABLE businesses, THAT worried, or do you just like causing trouble for folks that are actually working?

Here is a newsflash for some of you. These people that will respond to these CL ads, they aren't gonna call YOUR business anyway. They already KNOW what your prices are, and are seeking a BARGAIN. They just are too ignorant to realize what they are getting, or maybe they just don't care. Either way, you guys should not feel threatened.

These guys usually take care of themselves. I see no reason to try and rat someone out like this because while you may feel that he is cutting into your cap changing business because what happens when you knock him out of work is that we all get to support him with our tax dollars or he gets driven into a life of crime.

Most folks with businesses that I know of started out side jobbing...working without a license, insurance etc..... and those that said they didnt are usually.... lying.... not all.... but about 99.9999 percent of them...lol

They shall reap what they sow... and if you are a genuine decent repairman..... someone like this really doesnt cut into your business.

Originally Posted by ColdBeers

The sheriffs office by me has done some busts on unlicensed contractors by setting up stings from craigslist. Every so often you hear about them busting some guys.

The silver lining I am looking for!


Lets go, burnin daylight.

The sheriffs office by me has done some busts on unlicensed contractors by setting up stings from craigslist. Every so often you hear about them busting some guys.

I keep telling you guys,CL is only good for casual encounters!

Whoops. I guess that wouldn't be the best info. for this forum. Didn't think of that!


Lets go, burnin daylight.

Posting these ad's are entertaining and all, but they are not welcome on this site with their contact and license information attached.

Consider this a warning for future postings containing the same.

Thank you in advance !

The Mod Team

I saw those ads. Hope the get busted.

I don't see their TACL number. Maybe they just forgot.

Do you think they know the law? Should someone direct the State to them?


Lets go, burnin daylight.

Here is another one!

Small maintenance operation looking to branch out into consumer base. I have been a maintenance man for many years commercial and residential. If you have a mechanical issue (plumbing, electrical, hvac, structural) then I can help you without the big corporate prices or irreputable scamming. I want to build a long term relationship with you. If your looking for a guy to call, that can do and or advise you with all your maintenance needs...then call me! ????????
Location: North Dallas
it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests
License info: EPA HVAC universal, EPA lead renovator certified, NCCER level 1 instrumentation


Lets go, burnin daylight.

Another A/C Craigslist pirate

EXPERIENCE CERTIFIED EPA/TDLR ***HEATING & COOLING SERVICE TECH***

Also experienced in minor plumbing, electrical and some carpentry jobs. Skilled technician with ability to diagnosis and trouble shoot: have worked with bathroom and kitchen plumbing,repairing leaky pipes,install outlets, light swiches and replace bad breakers/fuses.

I service DFW area including both Saturdays/Sundays. , Resonable pricing. If interested in Skilled Tech call ????
Location: DFW
it's ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests
License info: EPA #????


Lets go, burnin daylight.