Hiring the wrong type of pro for a job either leaves you over-paying or creates serious liability issues. Here's the clear breakdown of when each type of professional is appropriate.
What a handyman does
Handymen handle a broad range of smaller maintenance and repair tasks that don't require licensed trade work: TV and picture mounting, furniture assembly, minor drywall patching, replacing fixtures, painting, door adjustments, weatherstripping, and general 'honey-do' list items. They typically charge $60-$125/hour with a minimum charge.
What a licensed contractor does
Licensed contractors handle work that requires permits, involves structural changes, or requires licensed trade certification. This includes: new electrical circuits, plumbing rough-in, HVAC installation, load-bearing wall removal, new construction additions, and roofing replacement. They carry contractor's license, liability insurance, and workers' comp.
The permit question is the deciding factor
If a job requires a building permit, you need a licensed contractor. Attempting permitted work without the right license creates serious problems: the work may fail inspection, you can't sell the house without remediation, and your insurance may deny claims for work done without permits.
Gray areas
Some work falls in between. Installing a new light fixture (replacing like-for-like, no new wiring): a handyman can do this in most states. Running a new circuit to a new location: licensed electrician required. Replacing a faucet: handyman or plumber. Replacing drain and supply lines: typically requires a licensed plumber.
- ✓Fixture replacement (no new wiring/plumbing): handyman
- ✓New circuits, panels, subpanels: licensed electrician
- ✓Faucet, toilet, fixture swap: handyman or plumber
- ✓New rough-in plumbing: licensed plumber
- ✓Cosmetic patching and painting: handyman
Bottom line
Match the professional to the work. Handymen are the right call for maintenance and cosmetic work; licensed contractors are required for anything structural, permitted, or trade-specific.
Need handyman work done?
Novum sends its own licensed crew. Flat upfront quote before we touch anything.