From drywall repair to fixture installations, pros address diverse home maintenance needs.

A handyperson can perform a wide variety of home improvement and repair projects. Common jobs include painting, cleaning gutters, assembling new furniture, and replacing fixtures like cabinets or lights. They can also handle more complex tasks such as installing a dishwasher, fixing minor plumbing leaks, refinishing wood floors, and replacing doors. Generally, a handyperson is ideal for any project that does not require a specific license or certification, such as those related to major plumbing, electrical, or structural work, which should be handled by a licensed tradesperson.

There are a few advantages to hiring a handyperson as a contractor, namely that they will likely charge less for their services since they don’t have as much overhead. A handyperson might also have more flexibility and be more involved in your specific home project, so you can communicate with one person instead of a subcontractor team.

Tipping contractors, builders, or general contractors is not customary or expected. Unlike many service professions where tipping is built into the payment structure, construction professionals typically charge a full rate for their services. However, you may choose to tip a worker for exceptional service, such as if they go above and beyond, stay late to meet a deadline, or work on a holiday weekend. Before offering a tip, it's a good idea to ask about the company's policy, as some prohibit their employees from accepting gratuities. If you want to show your appreciation for a job well done without giving a cash tip, consider writing a positive online review or offering to serve as a reference for potential new customers.