What is the Difference Between a Handyman and a Contractor?

What is the difference between a handyman and a contractor?  Many people think these two professionals do the same job, but this is not the case. Here are a few major differances....

Some handymen are very versatile in their services and can repair most anything in a home. Others are more specialized. Handyman services usually involve small jobs, while a contractor takes on entire building projects. Most often, handyman services are essentially similar to maintenance man services. They are usually family-based, and do not have extensive resources. They can however easily handle small repairs on a variety of appliances and house equipment. Some handyman services may include carpentry jobs such as replacing a door or window. Most often, a handyman will only take jobs that one or two people can safely do on their own. Handyman services are not typically sufficient for jobs that require crews, though many handymen have worked for a contractor or two in the past, and may do so on the side.

A contractor is also usually better-equipped and has numerous employees. Handyman services will usually require a specific type of license. A contractor may carry several different types of licensing. A handyman is also usually a sole proprietorship type business. A contractor likely has many employees, may or may not work with local unions to find workers and can likely engage subcontractors as needed.

Most often, when you need to decide whether to hire a contractor or handyman services, the answer will have to do with the scale of the project. If your local handyman can’t handle your job, they will generally refer you to a contractor, and may help you interface with the company you hire when you show them the project.