You’ll need to call a licensed contractor for larger projects like a complete remodel. These pros typically offer a wider range of services and must carry liability insurance for their work.
Some states limit the amount of labor and material dollars handymen can perform without a license, and others require licensing, testing, fees, and specific amounts and types of insurance coverage. For more details, check out Handyman Construction.
Handymen often offer installation services for lighting fixtures, such as ceiling fans or recessed lights. Many homeowners aren’t comfortable doing this work themselves, and a professional can quickly mount the fixture and hook up any necessary wiring. Handymen also sometimes install home security equipment and systems, including door and window sensors and alarms. They can also baby proof a house by installing outlet covers and safety locks, setting up gates, and anchoring furniture like dressers or bookshelves.
Another popular installation service handymen provide is drywall repair and replacement. This is typically a fairly easy job, but it’s one that many homeowners don’t feel comfortable doing themselves because of their fear of heights or lack of ladder-bracing skills. A handyman can quickly and safely remove old drywall and replace it with new drywall, patch holes or cracks, and paint the walls.
In addition to drywall, many handymen can also handle woodworking projects. For example, they may build a shed or fence from raw materials, or they could refinish an existing piece of wood furniture, such as a table or dresser. Refinishing wood can make it look new again and can save the owner money by not having to purchase a whole new piece of furniture.
A skilled handyman can also make quick work of painting and staining. This includes both interior and exterior painting, as well as woodworking projects like doors and cabinets. It can be difficult for the average homeowner to get a perfect paint job, so hiring a handyman can give the owner peace of mind that the job will be done right.
If a project involves more complex work than what a handyman is qualified to do, he or she can recommend a contractor with the appropriate licenses and experience. This is especially important if the project calls for specialized electrical or plumbing work, which requires a licensed electrician or plumber. Many cities and states have strict licensing laws for contractors, and state enforcement staff are known to conduct routine sweeps or “stings” of local handymen and contractor businesses. It’s always best to consult a lawyer or a licensing expert to learn about the specific requirements in your city and state.
Repair
If your to-do list of home improvement projects is growing longer, it may be time to call a local handyman. Handymen are available to handle a variety of tasks, from small plumbing jobs to carpentry repairs.
If a job is more complex and requires specialized knowledge, a contractor should be called. However, if the project is relatively minor and does not require a permit, a handyman is probably the right choice.
Some of the most popular repair services for residential customers are window and door replacements, drywall maintenance and repairs, and painting and staining. Some of these jobs may be simple, such as installing a new light fixture or patching a hole in the wall. Others may be more involved, such as replacing the screen door on a porch or repainting an entire room.
Often, people buy furniture that requires assembly before they can use it. Following the incomprehensible instructions to put it together can be a pain, especially after a long day at work. This is one service that handymen can offer, and it will be appreciated by many busy homeowners.
Other popular repair services for home owners include removing wallpaper, caulking kitchen and bathroom fixtures, and applying new paint. Handymen can also install and remove window air conditioners, replace cabinet drawer pulls, and hang mirrors and artwork on walls.
Many homeowners have a long list of repair tasks, but they lack the tools or time to complete them on their own. Hiring a professional handyman can help eliminate the stress of a to-do list and ensure that all repairs are completed correctly.
Some states require that licensed contractors carry liability coverage. Handymen and unlicensed home repair professionals may also purchase insurance to protect themselves from lawsuits resulting from accidents or damages that occur on a customer’s property. Darren Fuentes is an experienced handyman who provides custom home and commercial repairs for customers in the New York City area. He works with a team of specialists to ensure the job is done quickly and professionally. He has extensive experience with a wide range of services, including plumbing, electrical, and flooring installation.
Painting
A fresh coat of paint does wonders to brighten and modernize a room. Handyman services can provide interior and exterior painting touch-ups or complete makeovers. They can also install a variety of trim and molding, including crown molding for that premium motif.
Decks and porches are great areas for relaxing or entertaining, but they can take a beating from the elements. They require regular maintenance and repairs to keep them looking like new. Handymen have the skills to handle these tasks and can also add some additional features for extra comfort, such as built-in seating or lighting.
Handymen are true jacks of all trades, and their experience and knowledge apply to a wide range of small-to-medium home projects and repairs. They are not licensed contractors, but they can take on jobs that most people could do themselves given the time and equipment. They have a good understanding of carpentry, plumbing, electrical work and other specialties.
In general, a handyman should be insured and bonded. This will protect the customer if something goes wrong and ensures that the handyman is held responsible for their work. Some states have laws governing what types of jobs a handyman can take on and whether they need a license or permit. Check with your local government to learn more about the laws in your area.
A licensed contractor must meet higher educational, experiential and licensing standards than a handyman. They are more likely to be able to handle larger projects, such as a kitchen or bath remodel, and they typically have a contract with the customer that details the scope of the project, deadlines, responsibilities, pricing and payment schedule. They also have a keen understanding of building codes and can help customers navigate permitting processes. They may even oversee and manage specialized contractors on larger projects. Contact your state’s department of labor or local contractors’ board to learn more about the licensing requirements in your area.
Plumbing
Leaking pipes can be a serious problem. Not only do they produce annoying noises, but they also lead to water damage and mold growth. If you have a leaky pipe, it’s important to call a professional to fix it quickly. Licensed plumbers can offer a wide variety of plumbing services, including installation, repair, and maintenance. They are trained and experienced in all types of plumbing jobs and can diagnose and treat any issue.
While a handyman can complete some plumbing projects, a plumber should be hired to handle major ones. For example, replacing a damaged toilet requires more advanced knowledge of plumbing. In addition, a plumber is required to meet state and local licensing requirements.
Many states have laws defining the type of work that unlicensed home professionals can do. These laws typically define a maximum dollar amount for labor and materials, limit the types of projects that can be performed without a license, and require contractors to carry liability coverage.
Most states have a minimum education and experience requirement to become licensed as a contractor, along with testing, fees, and other licensing requirements. These regulations protect homeowners from unscrupulous contractors who may misdiagnose or overcharge for repairs. Many states also have a disciplinary board that investigates complaints against contractors and licensees. Regulatory agencies are known to conduct routine sweeps and stings of hundreds of companies, looking for violations like improper advertising, wages, and other legal issues.
In most states, a handyman can take on smaller home construction and maintenance tasks that are not related to electrical, plumbing, or carpentry. They can also perform small repairs and installations, such as installing new cabinet doors or fixing a broken window. However, there are some projects that a handyman can’t do, such as installing a new roof or doing electrical upgrades.
The main difference between a contractor and a handyman is that a handyman has a broad skill set while a contractor specializes in one or more trades. Additionally, contractors typically have extensive training on building codes and can manage large-scale home renovations and remodels. Handymen usually work alone or with one other person, and they are less likely to use subcontractors.
