Pennsylvania Home Repair Guide
In Pennsylvania, the median wage is $32.73 an hour for plumbers and $32.50 for electricians (BLS, 2025). This page shows what common repairs cost there, and who needs a license.
Who needs a license in Pennsylvania
| Trade | Rule | Source |
|---|---|---|
| General contractor | Pennsylvania has no licensure or certification requirement for most construction contractors, but contractors doing residential work must register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the state Attorney General's office. | Source |
| Plumber | Pennsylvania has no statewide requirement for most contractors, but some municipalities set their own requirements for plumbing contractors or plumbers. Check with the municipality where the work will take place. | Source |
| Electrician | Pennsylvania has no statewide requirement for most contractors, but some municipalities set their own requirements for electrical contractors or electricians. Check with the municipality where the work will take place. | Source |
What common jobs cost in Pennsylvania
| Job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Water Heater Replacement | $760 | $2,100 |
| Roof Replacement | $6,700 | $20,800 |
| AC Replacement | $3,800 | $9,100 |
| Furnace Replacement | $2,950 | $8,400 |
| Toilet Replacement | $230 | $940 |
| Electrical Panel Upgrade | $1,050 | $3,250 |
| Drain Cleaning | $100 | $420 |
| Garage Door Repair | $80 | $620 |
Hourly rates in Pennsylvania
| Trade | Median wage | Billed low | Billed high |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $32.73 | $82 | $147 |
| Electrician | $32.50 | $81 | $146 |
| HVAC Technician | $30.00 | $75 | $135 |
| Handyman | $23.70 | $59 | $107 |
| Roofer | $26.79 | $67 | $121 |
| Carpenter | $28.54 | $71 | $128 |
| Painter | $25.06 | $63 | $113 |
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.