Should I hire a handyperson for this job?

So you are looking to hire a skilled tradesperson for your home improvement tasks? While it may be tempting to hire a handyperson to tackle them all, keep reading to get an idea of what they can and can’t do.

California law requires that jobs exceeding $500 in value be performed by licensed contractors. This law is dated, and thus a $500 cap can be very low in the Bay Area. Please use your best judgment and consult us for guidance in advance if you are unsure. If you have multiple projects, you might consider asking the handyperson to quote and bill you for each individually.

Additionally, we recommend that you do not hire a handyperson for complex electrical and plumbing jobs. As an example, a handyperson can be engaged to fix a leaky toilet or replace a switch but should not be engaged to add a circuit or replace a toilet.

They can do small painting jobs but not the whole house, and if lead is a concern, you will need a lead-certified painter. Also if it involves a lot of exterior work, you will want to hire a painter as well.

Finally, as handypeople typically do not carry insurance, be aware that falls from ladders or roofs or damage to property may or may not be covered by your personal or business insurance policies. You may wish to check in advance if this could be an issue for you.

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