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If you have a growing list of home repairs and updates but aren’t sure what kind of professional is best for the job, you’re not alone: many Lansing homeowners get confused about whether to hire a handyman or contractor to handle their projects. It’s also a big decision, because choosing the wrong one can affect the cost, timeline, and other aspects of your project.
At Odd Fellows Contracting, we offer both handyman and contractor services, and have been serving the Greater Lansing Area since 1988. To help you make the best choice for your home, we’ve broken down the key differences between these two types of professionals who can help with your home repair in Lansing, MI.
Table of Contents
What Is a Handyman?
A handyman is a professional who handles small repairs and general home maintenance. Some handypeople work independently, while others, like our Odd Jobs division, are part of companies that provide a range of home services. They are typically more affordable than hiring a general contractor. Common handyman services include:
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Patching drywall
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Installing light fixtures
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Assembling furniture
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Repairing doors and windows
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Installing bathroom tile
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Repairing decks
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Installing railings
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Replacing bathroom and kitchen fixtures
While these Odd Jobs may be smaller than a remodeling project, the right handyman will still deliver the same quality and attention to detail as an experienced general contractor.
What Is a General Contractor?
A general contractor handles construction projects from start to finish and can take on jobs of any size. Unlike a handyman, a contractor is licensed to work on construction projects that include structural building changes and will obtain any necessary permits required for the job. They will also be aware of any local Lansing building codes and zoning laws. Some examples of contractor jobs include:
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Building decks and other outdoor features
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Finishing or remodeling basements
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Building home additions and accessory dwelling units (ADUs)
Contractors may also hire subcontractors like plumbers and electricians for larger projects requiring extensive trade expertise.
Key Differences Between a Handyman and a Contractor
Understanding the differences between the two types of Lansing, MI home repair professionals can help you decide whether to hire a handyman or a contractor. Here are the key points to remember:
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Project size: A handyman is the better choice for Odd Jobs like fixing doors, patching holes in walls, installations, and assembling furniture.
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Job complexity: More complex jobs, like whole-room renovations and building additions, are better suited to a contractor.
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Licensing and permits: If your project includes work that requires specific licenses or if you need to obtain building permits, a contractor is the right person for the job.
When Homeowners Should Hire a Lansing Handyman
Even if it isn’t the right fit for your current project, learning when to hire a handyman will make the decision easier next time you need one. The size and scope of your project are the most important factors. You should hire a handyman if you need help with:
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Small repair jobs: Fixing existing things around your home that need to be repaired, like doors, windows, leaky faucets, and holes in walls.
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Home maintenance jobs: Cleaning gutters, power-washing exterior surfaces, and repairing railings.
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Replacing outdated or damaged areas: Re-tiling a kitchen or bathroom, flooring repairs, and installing new cabinets.
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Assembling furniture and outdoor accessories: Putting together bed frames, sofas, deck furniture, sheds, and grills with our assembly and installation handyman services.
When Should You Hire a Contractor?
Contractors are the best professionals to hire for larger jobs, especially if the project involves structural changes like removing walls or requires building permits. If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel, a finished basement, a home addition, or to make any major plumbing or electrical upgrades, you should hire a general contractor. Check out some of our past remodeling projects to see examples of jobs that require a contractor.
What Is the Design-Build Process?
If your project is large or complex enough to need a contractor, it’s important to have a well-defined process to make sure your final remodel reflects your expectations and goes smoothly from start to finish. The design-build remodeling method is proven to be the smoothest, most efficient process for both you and your contractor. That’s why we based our award-winning process on this method, following these clear, simple steps for every project:
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Plan and design: We begin with a brief phone call to discuss the details of your project, and together come up with a clear plan and price.
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Prepare and schedule: Your project schedule is mapped out, materials are ordered, and all other details are finalized.
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Build and deliver: We stay on schedule, keep you informed, and walk through the finished project with you to ensure everything is completed as promised.
If your project is small enough for a handyman, you won’t need to go through these steps to get your home back in top shape, but getting familiar with the process can help you prepare for larger home repairs down the road.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Home Repair Professional
Whether you need a handyman or a contractor, it’s important to hire a professional who has the appropriate licensing (if required), insurance, and experience. You’ll also want to make sure you can get an estimate before the work begins so you know whether they’ll be able to work within your budget. Some helpful questions to ask:
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Are you licensed and insured?
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Do you provide free estimates?
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Have you worked on similar projects?
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Do you handle permits?
Frequently Asked Questions
Why hire a handyman when I can learn how to do the job myself?
There’s nothing wrong with learning the skills to complete a small home repair on your own. However, DIY projects run the risk of being done incorrectly if you’re doing it for the first time. It can also be time-consuming for busy homeowners to tackle everything themselves, and you might risk hurting yourself. Hiring a Lansing handyman gives you the peace of mind that your project will be completed professionally, on time, without any physical risk to you or your family.
How do I choose the right professional for my project?
Whether you hire a handyman or contractor for your project depends on these factors:
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Project size: A handyman is best for smaller, Odd Jobs around the house, while larger jobs require a general contractor.
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Complexity: Simple fixes like patching holes or fixing doors can be done by a handyman, but you should hire a contractor for more complex projects, such as bathroom or kitchen remodels.
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Permits required: If permits are required, you’ll need a contractor.
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Budget: For smaller projects, a handyman is the more affordable choice. Our typical Odd Jobs projects range from $500 to $40,000.
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Timeline: A handyman can handle a few quick fixes, while a contractor is the best option for projects with a longer timeline.
What factors affect the cost of my project?
Whether you decide to hire a handyman or a contractor, the cost will be determined by the scope of work, materials needed, timeline, and condition of the area of your home. A complex remodel that includes restoration work and high-end materials on a tight deadline will land on the higher end of the cost spectrum and will require a contractor. If you just need a few quick Odd Jobs that can be completed in a day by a handyman, the cost will be much lower. Our remodeling cost guide can help you determine how much you might need to spend on your project.
How do I get an estimate for my project?
To get an estimate for projects of any size, all you have to do is contact us and provide the details of your project. For most handyman services, we offer flat-rate pricing, and we provide fixed estimates for larger projects, so you can trust the numbers we give you up front.
Do I need a design-build process?
Whether you need a design-build process depends on the type of project. Our award-winning process is the smoothest, most efficient approach for larger, more complex remodeling projects, but it’s not usually necessary for smaller, Odd Jobs that can be completed by a handyman.
We’re Here To Help
From Odd Jobs around your home to full remodels, Odd Fellows Contracting has the experience and expertise to complete your project smoothly and efficiently. Our handyman team is ready to take on small jobs, while our licensed contracting team can handle all your remodeling needs. Check out our remodeling cost guide, and contact us for a free estimate when you’re ready to get started!
