The quiet way to stop expensive home problems before they start

Homes rarely fail all at once. They whisper: a sticky door, a slow drain, a hairline crack. A great handyman catches those whispers early and keeps your place safe, efficient, and beautiful—without contractor-level chaos or cost.

What exactly does a handyman do?

A handyman (or handywoman) is a multi-skilled pro who tackles small to mid-size repairs, maintenance, and installs. Think of them as your first call for punch lists and upkeep.

• Handyman: Small repairs, maintenance, light installations, cosmetics, and non-structural fixes.
• Licensed trade (electrician, plumber, HVAC): Specialized, code-heavy, or hazardous work.
• General contractor: Large projects, multi-trade coordination, permitting, and structural changes.

Typical handyman tasks

• Minor carpentry: trim, doors, shelves, cabinets, hardware
• Drywall: small patches, texture blending, nail pops
• Caulk, grout, and sealant refresh
• Weatherproofing: weatherstripping, door sweeps, window/door caulk
• Fixture swaps: showerheads, faucets (like-for-like), cabinet pulls
• Mounting: TVs, mirrors, curtain rods, grab bars
• Safety: smoke/CO detectors and battery swaps, childproofing
• Exterior upkeep: gutter cleaning (single-story), screen repair, small fence fixes
• Light electrical accessory work that doesn’t alter wiring: bulbs, faceplates, battery-powered smart devices

27 small fixes that save big money

1. Re-caulk tubs and showers to stop hidden water damage.
2. Replace worn door weatherstripping to cut drafts and energy bills.
3. Adjust sagging doors and latches to prevent frame wear.
4. Patch drywall dings and nail pops before repainting.
5. Re-grout or re-seal tile to keep moisture out of subfloors.
6. Clean gutters and add downspout extensions to protect your foundation.
7. Seal exterior penetrations (cable, hose bibs) against water and pests.
8. Lubricate garage door rollers and align sensors for smoother, safer operation.
9. Swap old supply hoses (washing machine, faucets) for braided stainless lines.
10. Fix running toilets with new flappers and chains to save on water.
11. Replace cracked switch/outlet plates and add childproof covers.
12. Install door sweeps to block dust, bugs, and drafts.
13. Upgrade to LED bulbs and motion bulbs for efficiency and safety.
14. Replace aging smoke and CO detectors and set staggered battery dates.
15. Touch-up high-wear paint on trim, railings, and doors to prevent rot.
16. Adjust or replace soft-close cabinet hinges and slides.
17. Mount TVs, shelves, and mirrors to studs or proper anchors.
18. Replace showerheads and aerators to improve flow and cut water use.
19. Refresh exterior caulk around windows and doors for weatherproofing.
20. Install grab bars and anti-slip strips to reduce fall risk.
21. Clean short dryer vent runs and verify the exterior flap closes freely.
22. Install smart locks and battery-powered cameras/doorbells.
23. Replace torn screen mesh on windows and doors.
24. Tighten loose stair balusters and handrail brackets.
25. Refasten deck screws and fill popped fasteners to prevent trip hazards.
26. Insulate hose bibs and exposed pipes before freezes.
27. Add pest-proof vent screens and seal small gaps with steel wool and caulk.

8 jobs to leave to licensed pros

1. Electrical panel work, new circuits, or aluminum wiring remediation.
2. Gas lines and gas appliance hookups.
3. Roofing beyond minor patching, and any multi-story roof work.
4. Structural changes: load-bearing walls, beams, or rot/sill repairs.
5. Major plumbing: repipes, water heaters, sewer lines, or corroded shutoffs.
6. HVAC refrigerant systems and gas furnaces.
7. Window/door replacements that require reframing or flashing integration.
8. Environmental hazards: asbestos, lead paint abatement, serious mold remediation.

What it costs—and how to save

• Typical hourly rate: $50–$125 depending on region and skill.
• Minimum/dispatch fee: commonly $100–$250.
• Half-day: $200–$450; Full day: $400–$900.
• Materials: Some pros add a 10–30% markup for sourcing convenience.
• Travel/ladder fees: Ask upfront.

Ways to save without cutting corners:
– Batch tasks by room and tools needed to reduce setup time.
– Send clear photos, measurements, and a prioritized list before booking.
– Buy finish items you have strong opinions about (paint color, hardware); let the pro supply fasteners and consumables.
– Clear 3–4 feet around work areas and protect pets ahead of time.
– Schedule recurring seasonal visits for better rates and proactive upkeep.

How to hire the right handyman

Where to find:
– Word-of-mouth from neighbors, property managers, and local realtors
– Community boards and neighborhood apps
– Independent pros’ sites or local directories with photo galleries

Smart screening questions:
– What tasks are your specialty and what do you avoid?
– Are you insured? Can you share a certificate of insurance?
– Do you offer a workmanship warranty? How long?
– How do you price—hourly, half/full day, or flat per task?
– Do you charge for store runs or travel time?
– What happens if you uncover hidden damage?

Paperwork to request:
– Written scope and not-to-exceed amount
– Start date/time window and estimated duration
– Payment terms (e.g., materials deposit, pay per day or milestone)
– Warranty and cleanup/disposal plan

A one-page scope template you can copy

• Project: Two-hour punch list
• Address + access notes: lockbox code, parking, elevator
• Date/time window: [insert]
• Tasks (prioritized):
• Adjust front door latch; add weatherstripping
• Re-caulk master shower base
• Patch two drywall holes (3″ and 1″) and touch-up paint
• Replace two smoke detectors (supplied by client)
• Materials: Client provides finish items; pro provides fasteners/consumables
• Safety/constraints: Quiet hours 10 pm–7 am; pets crated
• Budget: Not-to-exceed $325 (labor + incidentals)
• Warranty: 30 days workmanship on listed tasks
• Photos: Attached to request

A seasonal punch list for year-round peace of mind

Spring
– Clean gutters/downspouts, check grading away from foundation
– Inspect exterior caulk/paint; seal cracks
– Test GFCI and smoke/CO detectors; replace batteries as needed

Summer
– Inspect deck/railings and tighten fasteners
– Add/replace window and door screens
– Lubricate door hinges, locks, and garage door rollers

Fall
– Weatherstrip doors, install door sweeps
– Insulate hose bibs and store hoses
– Replace furnace filter and clean dryer vent cover

Winter
– Check for condensation or drafts; add interior caulk as needed
– Test sump pump and backup power (if applicable)
– Inspect attic for signs of leaks after storms

Prep checklist before the visit

• Clear 3–4 feet around work areas; move fragile items
• Secure pets and share any alarm codes
• Make shutoffs accessible; note breaker panel location
• Have chosen finish items on-site (paint, hardware, fixtures)
• Share building rules, parking, and elevator details

Green flags vs. red flags

Green flags
– Clear, written scope and pricing
– Insurance proof on request
– Organized tools, clean drop cloths, protects your home
– Offers options with pros/cons, not just a single answer

Red flags
– Won’t put anything in writing
– Vague “it’ll be cheap” estimates without detail
– No references, photos, or online presence
– Pushes into electrical/gas/structural work without proper licensing

Final thought

Small problems become big bills when they’re ignored. Book a two-hour punch list, start with your top five annoyances, and let a skilled handyman turn your home’s whispers into silence—and savings.