RenoHouse
# General Contractor vs Handyman — When You Need Which (and How to Choose)
*Part of our Home Renovation Guide Toronto 2026. Also part of our Handyman Services Guide.*
Hiring the wrong type of professional for your project wastes money. A general contractor for a TV mount is overkill. A handyman for a kitchen renovation is a disaster. This guide draws the clear line between the two.
Need professional renovation?
Call RenoHouse at 289-212-2345 or get a free estimate today.
Get Free Estimate →Quick Decision Guide
| Your Project | Hire a... | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Mount a TV, install shelves | Handyman | Simple task, no permit needed |
| Replace a faucet or toilet | Handyman | Fixture swap, no rough-in |
| Patch drywall, paint a room | Handyman | Cosmetic, low complexity |
| Install a backsplash | Handyman | Cosmetic, no structural change |
| Replace kitchen cabinets and counters | General contractor | Coordination of multiple trades |
| Remove a wall | General contractor | Structural assessment + permit |
| Full bathroom renovation | General contractor | Plumbing, electrical, tile, permit |
| Finish a basement | General contractor | Framing, electrical, plumbing, permit |
| Build a deck | General contractor | Structural, permit required |
| Replace windows | General contractor or specialist | Building envelope + permit |
What Is a General Contractor?
A general contractor (GC) manages the entire renovation project. They:
- Create a project plan and schedule
- Obtain permits
- Hire and coordinate subcontractors (plumber, electrician, tiler, etc.)
- Manage material ordering and delivery
- Schedule inspections
- Ensure building code compliance
- Provide warranty on all work
GC Costs
- Overhead and profit markup: 15–30% on top of subcontractor and material costs
- Typical project minimum: $10,000–$15,000
- Common project range: $25,000–$200,000+
What Is a Handyman?
A handyman is a generalist who does small to mid-size tasks. They:
- Handle a wide range of minor repairs and installations
- Work independently (no subcontractors)
- Own their own basic tools
- Charge hourly or flat rate per task
- Do NOT typically pull permits or manage inspections
Handyman Costs
- Hourly rate: $50–$100/hr
- Minimum charge: $150–$250
- Typical project range: $150–$2,000
The Key Differences
| Factor | Handyman | General Contractor |
|---|---|---|
| Project size | Small (under $2,000) | Medium to large ($10,000+) |
| Permits | Rarely needed | Often required |
| Subcontractors | Works alone | Manages multiple trades |
| Timeline | Hours to 1–2 days | Weeks to months |
| Insurance | Should have liability | Must have liability + WSIB |
| Contract | Simple scope + price | Detailed contract required |
| Licensing | No formal licensing | No formal licensing in Ontario* |
| Warranty | Varies (often informal) | Written warranty standard |
| Permits and inspections | Does not manage | Manages entire process |
*Ontario does not have a mandatory general contractor license (unlike some provinces). This makes checking references, insurance, and past work even more important.
When a Handyman Is the Right Call
- Single-trade tasks — One skill needed (e.g., drywall patching, painting, caulking)
- No permit required — The work is cosmetic or minor
- Under $2,000 — The project does not justify GC overhead
- Quick turnaround — You need it done this week, not in 6 weeks
- Maintenance tasks — Seasonal upkeep, small repairs, installations
When You Need a General Contractor
- Multiple trades required — Plumber + electrician + tiler + drywaller
- Permit required — Any work that needs City inspection
- Structural changes — Wall removal, additions, foundation work
- Budget over $10,000 — The complexity justifies project management
- Coordination needed — Tasks must happen in a specific order
- Code compliance — Work must meet Ontario Building Code
The Grey Zone
Some projects fall in between. Here is how to decide:
| Project | Handyman if... | GC if... |
|---|---|---|
| Bathroom tile | Replacing tile in kind (cosmetic) | Moving plumbing, changing layout |
| Deck repair | Replacing boards, resecuring | Rebuilding structure, adding to deck |
| Basement work | Painting, flooring in already-finished space | Finishing unfinished basement |
| Kitchen update | Hardware, backsplash, painting cabinets | New cabinets, counters, plumbing |
| Door replacement | Replacing a door in existing frame | Cutting a new door opening in a wall |
How to Vet Either One
For a Handyman
- 1. Check Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 20+ reviews)
- 2. Ask for proof of liability insurance
- 3. Get a written quote (even for small jobs)
- 4. Test with a small job before committing to a big one
- 5. Ask for references from recent work
For a General Contractor
- 1. All of the above, PLUS:
- 2. Ask for WSIB clearance certificate
- 3. Request 3+ references you can visit or call
- 4. Review their contract template before signing
- 5. Verify they pull permits (not you)
- 6. Check if they have experience with your specific project type
RenoHouse — Both Under One Roof
RenoHouse offers both handyman services and full general contracting. This means you get the right level of service for every project — without overpaying for small jobs or underserving large ones.
Call 289-212-2345 or request a free consultation.
