Handyman or licensed contractor? How to tell what your project needs
Some jobs are perfect for a handyman. Others legally call for a licensed contractor. Here's how to tell the difference in Florida.
Homeowners often aren't sure whether to call a handyman or a contractor. The honest answer is: it depends on the job. And in Florida, it can also be a legal question.
Jobs that are usually handyman work
Small repairs and installs that don't involve structural, electrical, plumbing, HVAC or roofing work are usually fine for a handyman. Think patching drywall, fixing a sticking door, hanging a TV, installing trim or shelving, assembling a gazebo or replacing door hardware.
Jobs that usually need a licensed contractor
Florida requires licensed contractors for many kinds of work, especially anything structural (removing or changing walls, beams, framing), additions, and projects that need building permits. Electrical, plumbing, HVAC and roofing each have their own licensed trades. If a job needs a permit, it generally needs to be done by someone licensed to pull it.
Why it matters
- Permits and inspections protect you. Unpermitted work can cause trouble when you sell, refinance or file an insurance claim.
- Insurance. If something goes wrong on an unlicensed job, you may have little recourse.
- Quality. Licensing means the contractor has passed state exams and meets state requirements.
Always check the license
You can look up any Florida contractor's license for free at the Department of Business and Professional Regulation's site, myfloridalicense.com. It takes about a minute.
Why we do both
Patrick's Handyman and Remodeling is a handyman company and a Florida Certified General Contractor (Lic. #CGC1541672). So whether you've got a punch list of small fixes or a remodel that needs permits, you can call one team. If part of your project needs a specialty licensed trade, we'll tell you and coordinate it.