Handyman vs. General Contractor
Handyman vs. General Contractor: What’s the Difference and When to Hire Each?
When it comes to home improvements, maintenance, and repairs, many homeowners find themselves wondering: Should I hire a handyman or a general contractor? Both professionals have their place in the world of home improvement, but they offer different services and expertise. Here’s what you need to know about the differences between a handyman and a general contractor, and how to decide which is right for your project.
What Does a Handyman Do?
A handyman is typically a skilled professional who can tackle a variety of small, non-specialized repairs and maintenance tasks around the home. Handymen are great for small projects or routine fixes, such as:
Fixing leaky faucets
Replacing light fixtures
Patching drywall
Assembling furniture
Performing minor carpentry work
Handymen usually work independently and charge by the hour or per project. They’re ideal for quick repairs and tasks that don’t require permits, specialized skills, or large crews.
What Does a General Contractor Do?
A general contractor is a licensed professional who manages larger renovation or construction projects that often involve multiple trades, permits, and complex planning. General contractors are essential for major home renovations and construction work, such as:
Kitchen or bathroom remodels
Building additions or extensions
Roof replacement
Full-scale home renovations
Custom deck or patio installations
Unlike handymen, general contractors work with a team of specialists, like plumbers, electricians, and carpenters, to ensure that each aspect of the project is completed to code. They also handle permits, oversee timelines, and coordinate the entire project to ensure high-quality results. If you’re considering a significant renovation, a general contractor is the right choice.
Key Differences Between a Handyman and a General Contractor
Understanding the main differences between a handyman and a general contractor can help you make an informed decision for your home improvement needs.
Scope of Work
A handyman typically handles smaller jobs, while a general contractor takes on larger, more complex projects.
Licensing and Insurance
General contractors must be licensed and insured for construction work, which protects you and your property. Handymen may or may not have licensing requirements depending on local regulations.
Project Coordination
General contractors manage the entire project, including hiring subcontractors and scheduling. Handymen typically work alone and focus on specific, smaller tasks.
Permits and Code Compliance
For large renovations that require permits and inspections, a general contractor ensures all work is done to code. Handymen do not handle projects that require permits.
When to Hire a Handyman
If you have a small project or repair, hiring a handyman can be a cost-effective and convenient solution. Here are a few examples of when a handyman might be the right choice:
Minor repairs around the house, like fixing a door, patching walls, or replacing cabinet hardware
Maintenance tasks like changing out air filters, cleaning gutters, or assembling furniture
Simple installations such as hanging blinds, mounting a TV, or setting up shelving
When to Hire a General Contractor
For larger projects that involve structural changes, multiple trades, or require permits, hiring a licensed general contractor is essential. You should consider a general contractor for projects like:
Kitchen or bathroom remodels that involve plumbing and electrical work
Full home renovations or remodeling that changes the layout or structure
Outdoor additions like decks, patios, or home extensions that need a strong foundation and framework
Projects requiring permits, such as roofing, new builds, or major alterations to your home’s structure
Hiring a general contractor like Home FREA ensures the project will be handled by professionals who understand the intricacies of construction and code compliance, giving you peace of mind and quality results.
Why Choose Home FREA for Your Project?
At Home FREA, we’re more than just general contractors. With over a decade of experience in real estate and construction, we understand the unique needs of Raleigh-Durham homeowners. Whether you need a full home renovation, a deck installation, or expert management of your remodeling project, our team has the knowledge and commitment to deliver worry-free solutions tailored to your vision.
Be Worry Free With Home FREA—contact us today to discuss your project needs and learn more about our services.
By understanding the differences between a handyman and a general contractor, you can confidently make the right choice for your home project. For larger renovations and remodeling, trust Home FREA to bring expertise and dedication to every detail.