Commercial property owners often require maintenance and repair services for their buildings. However, understanding the difference between a handyman and a general contractor is crucial in choosing the right professional for the job. In this article, we will discuss the differences between a handyman and a general contractor in the context of commercial properties.
Handyman
A handyman is a skilled professional who can perform various tasks related to maintenance, repair, and installation. Their services are often required for minor repairs, such as fixing leaky faucets, replacing light fixtures, and patching drywall. Some handymen may also have expertise in carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and other trades.
Handymen typically work independently or as part of a small team. They may not have a formal education or certification in their trade, but they have acquired skills through on-the-job training and experience. They usually charge an hourly rate, and their fees are often lower than those of general contractors.
General Contractor
A general contractor is a professional who oversees a construction project from start to finish. They are responsible for planning, coordinating, and managing all aspects of the project, including hiring subcontractors, obtaining permits, and ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations. General contractors typically work on larger projects, such as building renovations or new construction.
General contractors have a formal education and certification in their trade. They are required to have a license to work in most states. They may also have expertise in specific areas, such as electrical or plumbing work. Usually, they will charge a flat fee or a percentage of the project’s total cost.
Differences Between Handyman and General Contractor
Scope of Work
The main difference between a handyman and a general contractor is the scope of work they perform. A handyman is typically hired for smaller, simpler jobs, such as replacing a light fixture or installing an appliance. Meanwhile, general contractors are hired for larger, more complex projects, such as renovating an entire building or constructing a new one.
Qualifications
Another difference between a handyman and a general contractor is their qualifications. Handymen may not have formal education or certification in their trade, but they have acquired skills through on-the-job training and experience. General contractors, on the other hand, have a formal education and certification in their trade and are required to have a license to work in most states.
Cost
Handymen typically charge an hourly rate, and their fees are often lower than those of general contractors. General contractors usually charge a flat fee or a percentage of the project’s total cost. While handymen may appear to be the more cost-effective option, it’s important to consider the scope and complexity of the project. For larger projects, a general contractor may be a better choice.
Responsibility
Handymen are responsible for the quality of their work. They may carry general liability insurance to protect against damage or injuries while working on a job. However, their coverage may be limited, and they may not carry handyman workers comp insurance.
On the other hand, general contractors are responsible for the entire project, including the work of subcontractors. They are also required to carry workers’ compensation and general liability insurance to protect the contractor and the commercial property in case of accidents or injuries during the project. They also have bonding insurance, which protects the business owner in case of incomplete work or other issues.
Conclusion
It is important to understand the difference between a handyman and a general contractor. Handymen are typically hired for smaller, simpler jobs, while general contractors are hired for larger, more complex projects. While handymen may appear to be the more cost-effective option, it’s important to consider the scope and complexity of the project.
As a contractor, it is crucial to ensure you have the proper insurance coverage to protect yourself and your clients. Fortunately, Pascal Burke Insurance Brokerage Inc. offers contractor insurance in Wisconsin, providing you with peace of mind. Contact us today and let’s talk about the policies we offer.