Wisconsin Home Repair Guide
In Wisconsin, the median wage is $39.04 an hour for plumbers and $36.80 for electricians (BLS, 2025). This page shows what common repairs cost there, and who needs a license.
Who needs a license in Wisconsin
| Trade | Rule | Source |
|---|---|---|
| General contractor | A Dwelling Contractor credential is for the owner, partner or chief executive of a contracting business that wants to obtain building permits for one- and two-family dwellings. It requires a surety bond of at least $25,000 or general liability insurance of at least $250,000 per occurrence. | Source |
| Plumber | Wisconsin's Department of Safety and Professional Services issues Master Plumber, Journeyman Plumber and Plumbing Apprentice credentials. | Source |
| Electrician | Wisconsin's Department of Safety and Professional Services issues Master Electrician, Journeyman Electrician, Registered Electrician, Electrical Apprentice and Electrical Contractor credentials. | Source |
| HVAC | Wisconsin's Department of Safety and Professional Services issues HVAC Contractor and HVAC Qualifier credentials. | Source |
File a complaint against a contractor: Wisconsin DSPS, File a Complaint
What common jobs cost in Wisconsin
| Job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Water Heater Replacement | $800 | $2,200 |
| Roof Replacement | $6,850 | $21,600 |
| AC Replacement | $3,800 | $9,050 |
| Furnace Replacement | $2,950 | $8,350 |
| Toilet Replacement | $250 | $1,050 |
| Electrical Panel Upgrade | $1,150 | $3,500 |
| Drain Cleaning | $120 | $490 |
| Garage Door Repair | $90 | $660 |
Hourly rates in Wisconsin
| Trade | Median wage | Billed low | Billed high |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $39.04 | $98 | $176 |
| Electrician | $36.80 | $92 | $166 |
| HVAC Technician | $29.67 | $74 | $134 |
| Handyman | $26.83 | $67 | $121 |
| Roofer | $28.54 | $71 | $128 |
| Carpenter | $29.65 | $74 | $133 |
| Painter | $24.08 | $60 | $108 |
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.