When a project needs to be done around the house, one of the first questions people often face is whether they should hire a handyman or a general contractor. Both can handle repairs and improvements, but they serve very different purposes. The difference between a general contractor vs handyman lies in the scale of the project, the legal requirements, and the level of expertise needed.

Handymen are versatile workers who specialize in smaller tasks, while general contractors manage large-scale construction and remodeling projects. Knowing who to hire can save you time, money, and stress. This guide explores their roles, compares their responsibilities, and helps you decide which professional is right for your specific project.

Understanding What a Handyman Does

Handymen are the go-to professionals for small jobs around the house. They are skilled in a variety of trades, though they may not have the licenses or certifications required for highly technical work. Their strength is versatility, often completing several different types of repairs in a single visit.

A handyman is best for quick, low-cost projects that don’t require permits or advanced knowledge of specialized trades. Their services are ideal for people who don’t have the time, tools, or confidence to tackle minor home improvements themselves.

Handymen usually work as independent contractors or run small operations. Their flexibility makes them a convenient choice for homeowners who need regular upkeep without calling multiple specialists.

Common Handyman Tasks

The types of jobs that fall under a handyman’s responsibilities include:

• Replacing broken locks or handles
• Repairing drywall holes or cracks
• Installing shelves, blinds, or curtain rods
• Small painting projects
• Minor plumbing issues like unclogging drains or fixing leaks
• Basic electrical work such as changing outlets or light fixtures

Since most handymen charge by the hour, homeowners often make a list of small tasks to maximize their time during a single visit.

Understanding What a General Contractor Does

General contractors, on the other hand, are licensed professionals responsible for major construction or remodeling projects. Their role extends far beyond performing individual tasks. They oversee the entire project, ensuring it is completed safely, legally, and on time.

A general contractor manages large-scale jobs that involve multiple trades, permits, and inspections. They coordinate subcontractors, procure materials, and maintain compliance with building codes. This makes them essential for projects where the stakes are high and mistakes can be costly.

Unlike handymen, general contractors typically operate as registered businesses. They carry insurance, have access to professional networks, and follow strict legal requirements to protect homeowners and workers alike.

Common Projects for General Contractors

Examples of projects that call for a general contractor include:

• Full kitchen or bathroom remodels
• New home construction or additions
• Structural modifications such as removing load-bearing walls
• Major roofing replacements
• Deck building requiring permits and inspections
• Basement finishing

These types of projects require oversight that ensures different professionals—like electricians, plumbers, and carpenters—work together seamlessly under one plan.

Comparing General Contractor vs Handyman

It is easier to see the distinction between these two professionals when they are compared side by side. A handyman is the right fit for small jobs, while a general contractor is necessary for big projects that involve multiple moving parts.

Factor	Handyman	General Contractor
Project Size	Small to medium	Large-scale construction or remodels
Licensing	Not always required	Licensed and insured by law
Permits	Rarely necessary	Usually required for their projects
Cost	Lower, hourly or flat rate	Higher, includes management and subcontractors
Skills	General skills across many trades	Specialized knowledge, project management
Liability	May not carry insurance	Required to carry insurance and bonding
Best For	Repairs, maintenance, and light installs	Remodels, additions, structural work

This breakdown shows how each serves a unique purpose in the home improvement world. Choosing incorrectly can lead to delays, legal complications, or unsafe results.

When to Hire a Handyman

Handymen fill the gap between doing it yourself and calling a licensed contractor. They are cost-effective and practical for everyday household maintenance. Hire a handyman when the work is straightforward, doesn’t require permits, and can be completed within a few hours or days.

A handyman is a good choice for:

• Seasonal home maintenance like gutter cleaning
• Small carpentry projects such as building shelves
• Replacing outdated fixtures
• Touch-up painting
• Repairing doors, windows, or fences

For older homes, handymen can be especially useful because small issues frequently arise. A loose cabinet handle, drafty window, or broken tile may not justify calling a contractor, but they still need to be fixed before they cause larger problems.

Another benefit of hiring a handyman is convenience. Homeowners can compile a “honey-do list” of unrelated tasks and have them all done in a single visit. This makes the process efficient and less disruptive.

When to Hire a General Contractor

There are situations where hiring a handyman is not only impractical but also legally prohibited. Building codes and local regulations often require licensed contractors for larger projects. Hire a general contractor when your project involves multiple trades, requires permits, or changes the structure of your home.

Examples of contractor-level projects include:

• Adding a new room or garage
• Remodeling kitchens or bathrooms involving plumbing and electrical work
• Replacing a roof
• Installing HVAC systems
• Making foundation repairs

Attempting to hire a handyman for these jobs can result in failed inspections or even safety hazards. Contractors bring accountability, insurance coverage, and legal compliance, ensuring your investment is protected.

Cost Considerations

Cost is one of the biggest differences between hiring a handyman and a general contractor. Handymen generally charge by the hour, often between $50 and $100 depending on the location and type of job. Some may also offer flat rates for specific tasks.

General contractors typically cost more because they manage complex projects, hire subcontractors, and handle permits. They may charge a percentage of the total project cost, usually between 10 and 20 percent, in addition to labor and material expenses.

While hiring a handyman may seem cheaper, the wrong choice could lead to hidden costs. If a handyman takes on work that requires a permit and it fails inspection, you may have to pay extra to bring in a licensed contractor to correct the mistakes. Paying more upfront for a contractor can prevent these expensive problems.

Liability and Insurance

Another key difference involves liability. Many handymen operate without formal insurance, especially if they work independently. This means that if they are injured on your property or accidentally cause damage, you may be held responsible.

General contractors are required to carry insurance and bonding, which protects both homeowners and workers. This includes liability insurance, which covers damages, and workers’ compensation, which covers injuries.

Before hiring either type of professional, always ask for proof of insurance. Even for smaller jobs, having this protection gives peace of mind in case something unexpected happens.

Case Comparison: Kitchen Remodel vs. Bathroom Fix

One of the easiest ways to understand the difference is through a side-by-side case comparison. Imagine two homeowners: one wants a full kitchen remodel, and the other just needs a leaky bathroom faucet repaired.

Kitchen Remodel

A full kitchen remodel involves tearing out old cabinets, installing new plumbing lines, updating electrical systems, laying flooring, and setting up appliances. This project requires permits and multiple tradespeople working together. Only a general contractor can legally and effectively manage this scope of work. They coordinate plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and inspectors, ensuring everything is completed up to code.

Bathroom Faucet Fix

Now consider the bathroom faucet repair. The project is small, straightforward, and doesn’t require permits. A handyman can easily remove the old faucet, install a new one, and check for leaks. A handyman is the cost-effective and efficient choice for this type of job.

This comparison highlights how the scale of the project determines who you should hire. One involves management and compliance, while the other is a simple task suited for a quick fix.

Making the Right Choice

Deciding between a handyman and a general contractor becomes simple once you understand their strengths. Ask yourself the following:

1. How big is the project?
2. Does it require permits or specialized skills?
3. Am I protected if something goes wrong?

If the project is small and straightforward, a handyman is the right fit. If it is large, regulated, or requires coordination across trades, a general contractor is essential.

Homeowners who establish relationships with both types of professionals often find the best results. A handyman helps with everyday maintenance, while a contractor takes care of the big transformations.

Conclusion

The debate of general contractor vs handyman comes down to understanding the scope of your project. A handyman is ideal for small, affordable repairs and maintenance, while a general contractor is required for major remodels and construction projects. Choosing the right professional ensures your home improvement goals are met safely, legally, and efficiently.

Whether it is fixing a faucet or remodeling a kitchen, knowing the difference saves you from costly mistakes and helps you maintain confidence in your home improvements. By matching the right professional to the right job, homeowners can keep their homes in top shape and handle larger upgrades when the time is right.