RICHMOND, VA – A sweeping new tax proposal introduced by Virginia Democrats could soon make it more expensive to maintain, clean, and repair homes across the Commonwealth. House Bill 900, filed earlier this month by Delegate Sullivan (D–Arlington), seeks to expand Virginia’s sales and use tax to a wide range of residential services — including home repairs, landscaping, and housekeeping.
The measure, part of a broad revenue overhaul, would apply the state’s standard sales tax rate to home maintenance tasks such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and HVAC servicing, so long as the job does not require a state or local permit. Homeowners who hire contractors for small projects — from repainting a living room to fixing a faucet — would see those services taxed under the proposed law.
The bill also extends taxation to residential landscaping and cleaning services. That includes lawn mowing, tree removal, power washing, pool servicing, and even window or upholstery cleaning when paid directly by homeowners. Previously, these services were exempt from Virginia’s sales tax structure.
Lawmakers backing the proposal argue that taxing services brings fairness to the system by treating service-based businesses the same as retail sales. Supporters say the new tax would help generate critical revenue for Virginia’s transportation infrastructure and other state-funded projects.
Republican lawmakers and taxpayer advocates have criticized the bill, calling it a hidden cost increase for middle-class families already facing rising inflation and property expenses. Small business owners in home services industries warn that the added tax could drive customers to informal or unlicensed labor markets to avoid higher bills.
- House Bill 900 adds Virginia’s sales tax to home repairs, maintenance, landscaping, and cleaning services.
- Democrats say the expansion will modernize tax policy and fund transportation projects.
- Critics warn it will raise costs for homeowners and pressure small service businesses.
The legislation, referred to the House Committee on Finance, marks one of the most significant proposed expansions of Virginia’s sales tax in decades. As hearings begin, both homeowners and contractors are preparing to voice strong opinions on whether the state should tax basic home upkeep — from fixing a leaky sink to mowing the lawn.
