If you’re planning a home improvement project, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to hire a handyman or a general contractor. Both play vital roles in home maintenance and remodeling, but understanding the differences between them will help you choose the right professional for your project, avoid delays, and save money.
Let’s break down the difference between a handyman and a general contractor and help you figure out who’s the best fit for your next home task in Atlanta.
What Is a Handyman?
A handyman is a skilled professional who handles a wide variety of small to medium-sized repair, maintenance, and installation tasks. Think of them as your go-to expert for “fix-it” jobs around the house that don’t require permits, inspections, or multiple trades.
Common handyman services include:
- Replacing light fixtures and ceiling fans
- Installing grab bars or shelves
- Repairing drywall or patching holes
- Painting touch-ups
- Caulking bathtubs and windows
- Fixing leaky faucets or toilets
- Hanging doors or mounting TVs
Handymen are ideal for single-day projects or to-do lists that don’t require extensive planning or structural changes.
What Is a General Contractor?
A general contractor (GC) is a licensed professional who manages larger, more complex remodeling or construction jobs. GCs often oversee multiple subcontractors (such as plumbers, electricians, or HVAC technicians) and coordinate permits, inspections, schedules, and materials.
Typical general contractor projects include:
- Full kitchen or bathroom remodels
- Room additions or basement finishing
- Structural changes (e.g., moving walls or beams)
- Roof replacements
- Major plumbing or electrical updates
- Permitted construction work
General contractors are ideal when the job requires multiple trades, structural expertise, or compliance with local building codes.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Project Scope | Small repairs & installs | Large renovations & remodels |
|---|---|---|
| Permits & Inspections | Not typically required | Often required |
| Licensing | May not be required (varies by state) | Required for larger jobs |
| Team Size | Usually works solo | Manages subcontractors & crews |
| Ideal For | Quick fixes, maintenance, small jobs | Structural work, full-room remodels, permits |
When to Hire a Handyman
Hire a handyman if your project is:
- Under $2,500–$5,000 in cost
- Involves only one or two trades
- Doesn’t require permits or inspections
- Focused on repairs, fixtures, or surface-level updates
For example, if your bathroom faucet is leaking, or you need a drywall patch in the hallway, a handyman can get it done quickly and affordably.
When to Hire a General Contractor
Hire a general contractor if your project:
- Exceeds a few thousand dollars
- Includes plumbing, electrical, and/or structural changes
- Needs permits or code compliance
- Requires design planning, permits, or multiple trades
A bathroom remodel with new tile, plumbing reroutes, and custom cabinets? That’s a job for a licensed GC.
Can a Handyman and General Contractor Work Together?
Absolutely. In fact, many homeowners benefit from using both. A handyman can handle smaller follow-up tasks after a major remodel, like installing trim or mounting towel bars, while the general contractor oversees the big-picture build.
Choosing the Right Professional in Atlanta
Whether you need a simple repair or a major upgrade for your Atlanta Home, The Trusted Toolbox is here to help. Our team includes experienced handymen and licensed contractors ready to handle everything from punch lists to full remodels.
We proudly serve homeowners throughout the Atlanta metro area with:
- Transparent pricing
- Reliable scheduling
- High-quality workmanship
Not sure which expert you need? Contact us for a free consultation, and we’ll help you decide the best path forward based on your goals, timeline, and budget.
Let’s get your home project done right—the first time.
Call The Trusted Toolbox or schedule online today.