Time & Money

Difficulty
6/10

Weekly Time Commitment
15-40 hours (depending on client demand and the services offered)

Earnings Per Month
$3,000 - $10,000+ (varies based on services, clientele, and work volume)

Is Starting a Handyman Business the Gig for Me?

Starting a handyman business is a perfect pursuit for individuals who are skilled in a variety of home improvement tasks and enjoy working with their hands. It is ideal for problem solvers who like to take on multiple projects a day and are exceptionally detail-oriented. This likely isn't the gig for you if you dislike physical labor or unpredictability. If you're a fit, flexible, dynamic person who enjoys working with people, this might be a golden opportunity for you to thrive.

Preparation: How to Start a Handyman Business

So what's the best way to start a handyman business? Before you get ahead of yourself, assess your skills and the types of services you want to provide. A handyman can offer plumbing & electrical work, carpentry, painting or general home repairs. Next, purchase any tools and equipment needed for the services you'll provide. Find out about local laws - some areas require licenses or insurance. A solid business plan defines your target market, pricing, and goals. Create an online presence as well so potential clients can easily find you and contact you.

Execution

Identify Your Services and Niche

A handyman typically covers many different services - so the first step is to choose what area you want to specialize in. Will you provide general home repairs or do you want to delve into specific jobs like plumbing, electrical work or carpentry? You can stand out by focusing on a niche area. However, even providing general services to a high standard will build a following of clients. With experience you can expand your offerings.

Obtain Proper Licensing and Insurance

Many handyman services require permits or certifications to legally operate, so make sure to research local laws. Insurance also protects you and your clients, so do your research and get comprehensive cover. Liability insurance covers damage to property or accidents while you work. It's important to remember that proper licensing and insurance doesn't just keep you compliant with the law, it builds trust with your customers as well.

Invest in Quality Tools and Equipment

As a handyman, your tools are your most valuable possessions. Purchase quality equipment that will stand the test of time. Your basic toolkit will include a drill, saw, screwdriver set, pliers, wrench, ladder and safety equipment. You may need a tile cutter, pipe wrenches or plumbing supplies - depending on what services you provide. Regular tool maintenance will improve the quality and efficiency of your work.

Set Your Pricing Structure

You will need to research local market rates in order to calculate your pricing. Some handymen charge by the hour while others charge flat rates for certain jobs or projects. Think about travel time, tool use, and job complexity, when setting your rates. If you're just starting out, you might want to offer competitive rates so you can get your first clients and build your reputation. You can then adjust your pricing as you develop a good reputation.

Create a Marketing Strategy

To attract clients, you'll need to market your services effectively. Start by creating a website that showcases the services you offer, your experience, and contact information. Utilize social media platforms to engage with your local community, share photos of your work, and offer helpful tips. Word-of-mouth referrals are crucial in this business, so ask satisfied clients to leave reviews or recommend you to others. Flyers, business cards, and local advertising in community centers or on bulletin boards are also great ways to spread the word.

Build Strong Relationships with Clients

Providing excellent customer service is crucial for repeat business and referrals. Show up on time, communicate clearly, and exceed expectations whenever possible. By building trust with clients, you can increase the chances of them hiring you for future projects or referring you to others. It’s also important to maintain professionalism—whether you’re in someone’s home or on their property, being respectful and courteous will go a long way in building a positive reputation.

Stay Organized and Manage Your Time Efficiently

As your business grows, staying organized will be essential. Use scheduling software or apps to keep track of appointments and deadlines. Having a clear and organized system for invoices, payments, and receipts will also help you stay on top of finances and taxes. Being punctual and reliable will not only keep clients happy but also help you manage your time effectively as your business expands.

Bumps In The Road

Unpredictable Workload

The demand for handyman services can fluctuate throughout the year. You may have busy periods where you’re fully booked and slow times when clients are few and far between. To handle this, it’s important to plan financially for slower months and consider offering seasonal promotions or additional services like holiday decoration installation to maintain steady work. Networking and asking for referrals can also help fill in the gaps during slower periods.

Competing with Larger Businesses

Competing against larger, established companies can be tough when starting a handyman business. But you can carve out a niche offering personalized services and flexible pricing to build relationships with clients. You cannot expect the same attention to detail or customer service from large companies, so highlight your strengths when marketing your services.

Tool and Equipment Maintenance

Handymen rely on their tools - and so they need to work. But tools have a habit of breaking or wearing down, which results in extra repair costs. Proper preventative maintenances will prolong the life of your equipment, so consider putting aside some of your earnings for tool repairs or replacements to prevent work disruptions.