Hi Janet,

You will need the advice of a LOCAL attorney to determine the 'legality' of requiring a bond for your kind of business.

Your local business licensing authority should also be able to answer the question.

But, whether required or not, Bonding your business and your employees is a very good idea from both marketing and operational standpoints.

Good Luck!

Source: http://www.abusinessmentor.com

You didn't say which state you are in, but in most states, jobs such as the painting and repairs aspect have to be less than $500 to qualify as "handyman" jobs. More than that and you're getting into contractor territory and you have to be licensed, have a contractors license bond and workers' compensation insurance.

Consult the contractors state license board in your state state. Here's California's as an example.