Handyman in Charleston

For an active leak, no cooling in July, or a loss of power, most established local companies hold same-day slots and run an after-hours line. Call rather than form-fill for anything urgent — you will get a real answer about arrival time.

Most trades do. Residential builders and specialty contractors are licensed at the state level, and electrical, plumbing and mechanical work generally requires a licensed contractor plus a permit for anything structural or system-level. Always ask for the number and confirm it is active.

The usual rule of thumb: if the repair costs more than a third of replacement and the unit is past two-thirds of its expected life, replacement is usually the better spend. In our salt air and humidity, outdoor equipment ages faster than the manufacturer's number suggests.

Salt air corrodes outdoor coils, fasteners and fixtures. Humidity feeds mildew and pests year-round. Hurricane season means roofs, gutters and drainage deserve an annual look. Most homes here need more preventative attention than the same house inland.

Generally yes for electrical, plumbing, mechanical replacements, structural changes and roof replacements — and the requirements differ across Charleston, Mount Pleasant, North Charleston and the county. A contractor who tells you a permit is unnecessary to save you money is a contractor to pass on.