Home Repair Decoded

Georgia Home Repair Guide

In Georgia, the median wage is $27.50 an hour for plumbers and $28.04 for electricians (BLS, 2025). This page shows what common repairs cost there, and who needs a license.

Who needs a license in Georgia

TradeRuleSource
General contractorIn Georgia, you must be licensed to perform or offer residential or commercial general contractor services for compensation. Licenses are not required for work that qualifies as a specialty trade.Source
PlumberGeorgia's Division of Master and Journeyman Plumbers offers state plumbing licenses for journeyman plumbers and master plumbers.Source
ElectricianGeorgia has a State Board of Electrical Contractors under the Secretary of State's Licensing Division.Source
HVACGeorgia has a State Board of Conditioned Air Contractors, a division of the State Construction Industry Licensing Board.Source

Can homeowners do their own work?

Georgia does not require you to hold a license to build your own home, but you should check with your local authority to make sure you meet all local building codes and regulations. Source

File a complaint against a contractor: Georgia Secretary of State, Licensing Division, How To Submit A Licensing Complaint

What common jobs cost in Georgia

JobLowHigh
Water Heater Replacement$740$2,000
Roof Replacement$6,250$19,100
AC Replacement$3,750$9,000
Furnace Replacement$2,900$8,200
Toilet Replacement$220$870
Electrical Panel Upgrade$960$3,000
Drain Cleaning$90$360
Garage Door Repair$80$610

Hourly rates in Georgia

TradeMedian wageBilled lowBilled high
Plumber$27.50$69$124
Electrician$28.04$70$126
HVAC Technician$27.11$68$122
Handyman$22.92$57$103
Roofer$22.57$56$102
Carpenter$23.72$59$107
Painter$23.24$58$105

Cities

Licensing last verified 2026-11-03

Sources

General information, not professional advice. Conditions, codes and prices vary. Turn off power, gas or water before any work, and hire a licensed professional when in doubt. Cost figures are our estimates, not quotes.