As a landlord, keeping rental units safe and functional is a top priority. Between routine maintenance, tenant requests, and unexpected repairs, the costs can add up quickly. That’s why many property owners ask: can a handyman do electrical work in rental properties? The answer depends on the scope of work, California law, and how much risk you’re willing to take when it comes to safety and liability.
At San Diego Home Remodeling, we often hear from landlords looking for cost-effective solutions. Let’s go over what a handyman can legally do, when you need a licensed electrician, and how to make smart choices that protect both your tenants and your investment.
What Electrical Work Can a Handyman Legally Do?
In California, the rules for handyman work are clear. A handyman can perform minor electrical tasks as long as the total cost of labor and materials doesn’t exceed $500 and the job doesn’t require a permit.
This means that in a rental property, a handyman might handle tasks like:
Replacing a standard light fixture
Installing or changing outlet covers
Replacing light bulbs or faceplates
Fixing a simple switch
But once the job involves wiring, breaker panels, or anything requiring permits or inspections, a licensed electrician is legally required.
Safety and Liability for Landlords
Here’s the critical part: as a landlord, you’re not just worried about the cost, you're also responsible for tenant safety. If unlicensed electrical work leads to a fire, shock, or property damage, the liability often falls on you. Worse, insurance companies may refuse to cover damages caused by illegal or unsafe electrical work.
That’s why the question isn’t just can a handyman do electrical work but rather, should a handyman handle it in a rental property? The risks are often higher when tenants’ safety and legal responsibilities are on the line.
Affordable Maintenance vs. Safety
We understand the temptation to save money with a handyman. Hiring a local handyman San Diego is a smart way to manage small tasks quickly and affordably. For minor fixes like replacing a broken switch or updating a light fixture, this makes sense.
But for bigger projects adding outlets, rewiring old units, or installing GFCI outlets in kitchens and bathrooms the smarter move is to invest in a licensed electrician. These jobs not only protect your tenants but also keep your rental unit up to code, which matters during inspections or property sales.
How San Diego Home Remodeling Helps Landlords
At San Diego Home Remodeling, we work with both landlords and homeowners across San Diego. Our team helps property owners balance affordability and safety by connecting them with trusted handymen for minor jobs and licensed electricians for major projects.
We know how important it is to keep tenants happy while protecting your property value. That’s why we never cut corners or put landlords at risk with unsafe or unlicensed work.
When to Always Hire an Electrician
As a landlord, here are situations where you should avoid hiring a handyman and call an electrician instead:
Rewiring or upgrading units with outdated systems
Installing new electrical lines during renovations
Adding outlets or new switches
Repairing electrical panels or circuit breakers
Any work requiring permits or inspections
Final Thoughts
So, can a handyman do electrical work in rental properties? Yes but only for small, non-permit-required repairs under $500. For anything larger, riskier, or more complex, landlords should always hire a licensed electrician.
By partnering with San Diego Home Remodeling, you’ll get peace of mind knowing your rental property is safe, legal, and well-maintained without overspending on the wrong solutions.
