Hawaii Home Repair Guide
In Hawaii, the median wage is $37.53 an hour for plumbers and $46.38 for electricians (BLS, 2025). This page shows what common repairs cost there, and who needs a license.
Who needs a license in Hawaii
| Trade | Rule | Source |
|---|---|---|
| General contractor | Hawaii's state pages differ: the Contractors License Board FAQ says no license is needed only up to $1,000 with no permit, while other state pages say $1,500. Treat any job over $1,000, or any job needing a permit, as requiring a license, and confirm with the board. | Source |
| Plumber | Hawaii's Board of Electricians and Plumbers issues plumber licenses. Even when a county does not require a plumbing permit, the work may still have to be performed by a licensed plumber. | Source |
| Electrician | Hawaii's Board of Electricians and Plumbers issues electrician licenses. Even when a county does not require an electrical permit, the work may still have to be performed by a licensed electrician. | Source |
Can homeowners do their own work?
An owner-occupant may get an owner-builder permit, must supervise the construction, and must make sure subcontractors are properly licensed. The exemption does not cover electrical or plumbing work, and the home cannot be sold or leased for a year after the final inspection unless the Contractors License Board grants a hardship exemption. Source
File a complaint against a contractor: Regulated Industries Complaints Office (RICO)
What common jobs cost in Hawaii
| Job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Water Heater Replacement | $790 | $2,200 |
| Roof Replacement | $6,850 | $21,600 |
| AC Replacement | $3,800 | $9,150 |
| Furnace Replacement | $2,950 | $8,500 |
| Toilet Replacement | $240 | $1,000 |
| Electrical Panel Upgrade | $1,350 | $4,000 |
| Drain Cleaning | $110 | $470 |
| Garage Door Repair | $90 | $680 |
Hourly rates in Hawaii
| Trade | Median wage | Billed low | Billed high |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $37.53 | $94 | $169 |
| Electrician | $46.38 | $116 | $209 |
| HVAC Technician | $31.47 | $79 | $142 |
| Handyman | $27.86 | $70 | $125 |
| Roofer | $28.64 | $72 | $129 |
| Carpenter | $41.00 | $102 | $184 |
| Painter | $32.80 | $82 | $148 |
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.