Handyman vs. General Contractor: Who to Call for Your Repair Project?

You have a project in mind. Maybe the front door is sticking, or maybe you want to tear down a wall to open up your living room. You go to Google, but you pause. Do you search for a “Handyman” or a “General Contractor”?

In the construction world, these terms are often used interchangeably, but they mean very different things. Hiring the wrong professional for the job can lead to unfinished work, voided warranties, or even legal trouble with the Town of Oyster Bay.

At Lee Home Improvement, we want our neighbors to be informed. Here is the definitive guide to understanding who you need to hire.

The Handyman: The “Quick Fix” Specialist

A handyman is perfect for small tasks that take a few hours to a day. They are “jacks of all trades.” If you have a to-do list of minor repairs, a handyman is often the most cost-effective choice.

When to Call a Handyman:

• Hanging shelves, pictures, or curtain rods.
• Assembling flat-pack furniture.
• Patching a small hole in drywall (from a doorknob).
• Changing a hard-to-reach lightbulb or smoke detector battery.
• Replacing a faucet washer.

The General Contractor (GC): The Project Manager

A General Contractor, like Lee Home Improvement, is a licensed professional who manages larger, more complex projects. We oversee the “big picture.” We coordinate materials, schedules, and specialized trades (like plumbers and electricians) to ensure the job is done to code.

When to Call a General Contractor:

• Remodeling a kitchen or bathroom.
• Building a deck or addition.
• Replacing windows, siding, or roofing.
• Finishing a basement.
• Any project requiring a permit.

The Critical Difference: Licensing & Insurance

This is where the rubber meets the road on Long Island. In Nassau County, home improvement contractors must be licensed by the Office of Consumer Affairs.

Furthermore, if a handyman does electrical or plumbing work without a license, and that work causes a fire or flood, your homeowner’s insurance may deny your claim.

The Comparison Guide

Still not sure? Use this table to decide:

The “Gray Area”

Sometimes, a project falls in the middle. For example: replacing a front door. A skilled handyman could do it. But if the frame is rotted and the structure of the wall needs repair, you need a contractor. If you aren’t sure, it is always safer to call a GC for an assessment.

Trust the Professionals

Don’t risk your biggest investment—your home—on an unlicensed worker to save a few dollars. Whether it’s a roof leak or a kitchen remodel, get the peace of mind that comes with hiring a licensed, insured General Contractor.

Need a professional opinion on your project? Call Lee Home Improvement at (516) [Insert Number] today.