Handyman vs. General Contractor: Which Do You Need?
Use a handyman for small to medium repairs, maintenance tasks, and projects under $5,000 that don't require permits. Hire a general contractor for large renovations, structural work, and projects requiring permits and multiple trades.
One of the most common questions homeowners ask is whether they need a handyman or a general contractor. The answer depends on the scope, complexity, and permit requirements of your project. Here's a clear breakdown.
What a Handyman Does
A handyman handles a wide range of small to medium repairs, installations, and maintenance tasks:
Typical cost: $50-$100/hour or pre-priced time blocks
What a General Contractor Does
A general contractor manages larger construction and renovation projects:
Typical cost: Project-based pricing, often $10,000+
When to Hire Which
|---|---|---|
| Hanging shelves, TV mounts | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|
| Painting a room | Yes | No |
| Replacing a faucet | Yes | No |
| Drywall patch | Yes | No |
| Full kitchen renovation | No | Yes |
| Adding a bathroom | No | Yes |
| Removing a wall | No | Yes |
| Building a deck | No | Yes |
| Suite refresh / turnover | Yes | Maybe |
| Multiple small repairs | Yes | No |
The Grey Area
Some companies, like SturdyBee Property Solutions, bridge the gap. We function as a handyman service for smaller tasks AND handle renovation projects as a general contractor. This means:
Licensing in BC
In British Columbia, general contractors handling projects over $3,000 must be licensed through BC Housing. Handyman services under this threshold don't require the same licensing but should still carry WCB coverage and general liability insurance.
SturdyBee is WCB covered, fully insured, and Google Guaranteed — whether we're handling a 2-hour handyman visit or a full kitchen renovation.
Bottom Line
For a to-do list of small tasks, a handyman is your best bet. For a major renovation, you need a general contractor. For everything in between, you need a company that does both.
Call SturdyBee at (604) 366-4087 to discuss your project.
People Also Ask
Can a handyman do renovation work?
Handymen can handle small renovation tasks like backsplash installation, flooring, trim work, and fixture upgrades. Larger structural renovations require a licensed contractor.
Do general contractors charge more than handymen?
Yes, general contractors typically charge more due to project management overhead, insurance, and coordination of multiple trades. Handymen offer better value for smaller tasks.
When do I need a building permit in BC?
Permits are required for structural changes, new plumbing or electrical, additions, and changes to building systems. Cosmetic updates and basic repairs typically do not need permits.
Ready to get started?
SturdyBee Property Solutions serves 18 cities across Metro Vancouver & Fraser Valley. WCB covered, fully insured, Google Guaranteed.
