Handyman Experience
While an experienced handyman may charge a higher rate, they will be able to complete the job in half the time that a less experienced pro would take. A handyman’s rate will be based on their level of expertise. Complexity of the Job The more complicated the job, the longer it will take and the more it will end up costing you. A good handyman should be able to tell you from the beginning if there are aspects of the job that are beyond their skill set. If this happens, you will need to hire a contractor or licensed specialist. If you’re unsure of the complexity of the job, be sure to ask the handyman you’re considering to hire about the complexity of the job before you agree to hire them.
Common Handyman Repair Job Lengths and Reference Prices
The following are common handyman jobs broken down by those that are better charged by the hour and those better charged by the task.
Common Examples – Charged By the Hour
Charge Task Length of Time
Replace thermostat
Hang a heavy picture
Repair Leaking pipe
Replace a torn screen 1 – 2 hours
Drywall repair (small section) Mount Shelves 2 – 3 hours
Replace window Hang a new door Woodwork repair 3 – 4 hours
Repair a wall Install heating and air registers
Install carpet (small room) 4+ hours
Common Examples – Charged by Task Task Cost
Hall light installation $85
Change toilet valve $98
Bathroom faucet installation $118
Hang ceiling fan (normal height) $131
Hang ceiling fan (second story height) $327
Install garbage disposal $196
Install toilet bowl $196
Install toilet bowl $196
Install kitchen sink $327
Contractor vs. Handyman Which Should I Choose and Why ( yes there is a big difference )
A contractor is a specialist in their field, think electricians and plumbers. Contractors also often oversee a team that may consist of subcontractors who handle specialized jobs within larger projects. They are expected to be knowledgeable about permits.
Handymen specialize in odd jobs that cover a wide variety of projects. From replacing a broken cabinet hinge to stopping a leaky faucet, a handyman is a trained generalist who can take on your smaller projects. If you have a list of To-Do’s you need help with, hire a handyman to help you check off those items. You can even save money by having a handyman complete multiple projects in one day. No job is too small for a handyman which makes them a great option to help you around the house.
A simple way to figure out whether you need a handyman or a contractor is to consider the price and complexity of the project. If your project is going to cost over $500 a day and take more than two days to complete, a contractor is a better option. This is because a sizeable project will often require permits and inspections, plus a crew of workers to accomplish.
You should hire a handyman for projects that you may not have the time or ability to do yourself. Certain projects may seem straightforward, but once you get started you may be in over your head. Avoid costly mistakes by reaching out to a handyman to do these for you. They have a wide variety of skills that can help with a range of projects.
Ask yourself these questions when considering a handyman over a contractor:
Could I do it myself if I only had the time?
Could I do it myself if I only had the knowledge or ability?
Should this take less than a day?
Should this cost less than $500?
Can this be done by only one or two people?
Can this be done without a permit? If you answered “yes” to these questions, then you should move forward with hiring a handyman. Be sure to give as much detail as possible to your potential handyman so they know the scope of the project.
They will know for sure if they can handle the project or not.
