What Does a Handyman Do? Complete Guide for Homeowners

What Does a Handyman Do? Complete Guide for Homeowners

If you've ever had a leaky faucet, a door that won't close properly, or a wall that needs patching, you've probably wondered: should I call a handyman? The short answer is — probably yes. But what exactly does a handyman do, and when should you hire one versus a licensed contractor?

This guide breaks it all down for homeowners in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area.

What Is a Handyman?

A handyman is a skilled professional who handles a wide range of home maintenance, repair, and improvement tasks. Unlike specialized contractors who focus on one trade (plumbing, electrical, HVAC), a handyman is a generalist — someone who can tackle many different jobs in a single visit.

Think of a handyman as your home's "general practitioner." They handle the everyday issues that don't require a specialist, and they know when to refer you to one.

Common Handyman Services

The list of things a handyman can do is extensive. Here are the most common services homeowners in the GTA request:

Repairs & Maintenance

• Drywall patching and repair
• Door adjustments and repairs (sticking, squeaking, not latching)
• Window repairs and weatherstripping
• Caulking around tubs, sinks, and windows
• Grout repair and re-grouting
• Minor plumbing fixes (leaky faucets, running toilets)
• Deck and fence minor repairs

Installation & Assembly

• Furniture assembly (IKEA, Wayfair, Amazon)
• TV mounting and picture hanging
• Shelf and storage installation
• Light fixture replacement
• Curtain rod and blind installation
• Door hardware (handles, deadbolts, smart locks)
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Home Improvement

• Interior and exterior painting
• Baseboard and trim installation
• Tile backsplash installation
• Closet organizer systems
• Popcorn ceiling removal
• Pressure washing

Handyman vs. Contractor: When to Hire Which

This is one of the most common questions Toronto homeowners ask. Here's a clear breakdown:

Hire a handyman when:

• The job takes less than a day
• No permits are required
• The work doesn't involve structural changes
• You have multiple small tasks to bundle together
• You need general repairs and maintenance

Hire a licensed contractor when:

• The job requires a building permit
• Structural work is involved (removing walls, additions)
• Licensed trades are required by Ontario law (electrical, plumbing rough-in, HVAC)
• The project is large-scale (full kitchen or bathroom renovation)
• You need specialized expertise for a complex project

The gray area: Many handyman companies — like RenoHouse — employ licensed tradespeople who can handle both handyman tasks and licensed work. This means you get the convenience of one company for everything from hanging a TV to upgrading your electrical panel.

How Much Does a Handyman Cost in the GTA?

Handyman pricing in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area varies based on the type of work, complexity, and time required. Here's what to generally expect:

• Hourly rates typically range from $50 to $100+ per hour
• Minimum charges are common — most handymen have a minimum call-out fee
• Project-based pricing is often available for defined tasks like furniture assembly or painting
• Material costs are usually separate from labor

Tips to get the best value:

• Bundle multiple tasks into one visit to maximize the trip fee
• Get a written estimate before work begins
• Ask about pricing structure — hourly vs. flat rate
• Provide your own materials if you want to control costs

How to Choose the Right Handyman in Toronto

Not all handymen are created equal. Here's what to look for:

• 1. Insurance and WSIB — Always verify they carry liability insurance and WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) coverage. This protects you if someone gets injured on your property.

• 2. Reviews and reputation — Check Google reviews, HomeStars, and ask for references. Look for consistent 4.5+ star ratings with detailed reviews.

• 3. Clear communication — A good handyman responds promptly, provides clear estimates, and explains what the job involves.

• 4. Proper tools and equipment — Professional handymen arrive with a fully stocked toolbox. If they're constantly running to the hardware store, that's a red flag.

• 5. Licenses for specialized work — If they offer electrical or plumbing services, verify they have proper Ontario licenses.

• 6. Written estimates — Never hire a handyman who won't provide a written estimate. Verbal quotes lead to disputes.

• 7. Warranty on work — Reputable handymen stand behind their work with a warranty.

When NOT to DIY

Many homeowners try to save money by doing repairs themselves. While some tasks are perfectly fine for DIY (painting a room, assembling a shelf), others should always be left to professionals:

• Electrical work — Ontario law requires licensed electricians. DIY electrical can void your insurance and create fire hazards.
• Plumbing beyond minor fixes — A failed DIY plumbing job can cause thousands in water damage.
• Anything involving your home's structure — Cutting into walls, removing supports, or modifying load-bearing elements.
• Work that requires permits — Unpermitted work can cause serious problems when selling your home.

The Bottom Line

A good handyman is one of the most valuable contacts a homeowner can have. They save you time, prevent small problems from becoming big ones, and handle the endless list of tasks that every home requires.

Whether you need a single repair or have a list of projects you've been putting off, a professional handyman in the Toronto GTA can help. Look for experience, insurance, clear communication, and fair pricing — and you'll have a reliable partner for all your home maintenance needs.

Ready to Get Started?

RenoHouse provides professional handyman services across Toronto and the GTA. From furniture assembly to painting to drywall repair, our experienced team handles it all. Call 289-212-2345 or send us your task list for a free estimate.

Ontario Building Code Requirements

Any renovation project in the GTA must comply with the Ontario Building Code (OBC). This applies whether you're in Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, or any other municipality. Key requirements include:

• Building permits are required for structural changes, plumbing modifications, electrical work, and HVAC alterations
• ESA permits are mandatory for any electrical work — your contractor must be a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) in Ontario
• Plumbing permits through your local municipality for any new plumbing rough-ins or relocations
• Inspections at various stages — rough-in, insulation, and final inspection before closing walls
• Fire safety — smoke detectors on every level, carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas (Ontario law since 2015)

Failing to pull permits can result in fines, insurance issues, and problems when selling your home. Always verify your contractor handles permits as part of the project scope.