Ohio Home Repair Guide
In Ohio, the median wage is $30.45 an hour for plumbers and $31.11 for electricians (BLS, 2025). This page shows what common repairs cost there, and who needs a license.
Who needs a license in Ohio
| Trade | Rule | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Plumber | The Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board issues state licenses to commercial contractors in plumbing. Applicants must pass an exam, carry at least $500,000 in contractor liability coverage, and generally have 5 years as a tradesperson. This is a commercial license, so it doesn't settle what work on your home requires. Ask your local building department. | Source |
| Electrician | The Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board issues state licenses to commercial contractors in electrical work. Applicants must pass an exam, carry at least $500,000 in contractor liability coverage, and generally have 5 years as a tradesperson. This is a commercial license, so it doesn't settle what work on your home requires. Ask your local building department. | Source |
| HVAC | The Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board issues state licenses to commercial contractors in HVAC, hydronics and refrigeration. Applicants must pass an exam, carry at least $500,000 in contractor liability coverage, and generally have 5 years as a tradesperson. This is a commercial license, so it doesn't settle what work on your home requires. Ask your local building department. | Source |
File a complaint against a contractor: Ohio Department of Commerce, Industrial Compliance Complaint
What common jobs cost in Ohio
| Job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Water Heater Replacement | $750 | $2,050 |
| Roof Replacement | $6,350 | $19,600 |
| AC Replacement | $3,800 | $9,100 |
| Furnace Replacement | $2,950 | $8,400 |
| Toilet Replacement | $230 | $910 |
| Electrical Panel Upgrade | $1,000 | $3,200 |
| Drain Cleaning | $100 | $390 |
| Garage Door Repair | $80 | $650 |
Hourly rates in Ohio
| Trade | Median wage | Billed low | Billed high |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $30.45 | $76 | $137 |
| Electrician | $31.11 | $78 | $140 |
| HVAC Technician | $30.06 | $75 | $135 |
| Handyman | $25.68 | $64 | $116 |
| Roofer | $23.74 | $59 | $107 |
| Carpenter | $29.24 | $73 | $132 |
| Painter | $23.77 | $59 | $107 |
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.