When to Hire a General Contractor vs. a Handyman in San Antonio

12 Feb When to Hire a General Contractor vs. a Handyman in San Antonio

Home improvement projects come in all shapes and sizes, from fixing a leaky faucet to a full home renovation. But how do you know when to hire a handyman and when to call a general contractor? Choosing the right professional for the job can save you time, money, and frustration.

If you’re looking for handyman services in San Antonio or need a general contractor for a larger project, this guide will help you understand the differences between the two and when to hire each.

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What Does a Handyman Do?

A handyman is best suited for small repairs, maintenance tasks, and minor home improvements. They typically work on an hourly or per-project basis and handle a variety of jobs without requiring specialized licenses.

Common Handyman Tasks:

• Fixing leaky faucets or running toilets
• Patching drywall and minor painting
• Replacing light fixtures and ceiling fans
• Installing shelves, curtain rods, or small carpentry work
• Repairing decks, fences, or minor exterior damage
• Basic home maintenance tasks

When to Hire a Handyman:

• The job is small, requiring only basic tools and skills
• No permits or specialized licenses are needed
• You need quick, cost-effective repairs

If you need simple handyman services in San Antonio, hiring a skilled professional can help you take care of minor tasks without the expense of a full contracting crew.

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What Does a General Contractor Do?

A general contractor is responsible for overseeing larger construction and remodeling projects. They coordinate labor, materials, and permits to ensure the job meets local codes and regulations.

Common General Contractor Projects:

• Kitchen and bathroom remodels
• Home additions and structural changes
• Roofing and major exterior work
• Electrical and plumbing system upgrades
• Flooring replacement and major renovations
• Commercial construction and tenant improvements

When to Hire a General Contractor:

• The project involves structural changes or major remodeling
• Permits and inspections are required
• Specialized skills or multiple trades (electricians, plumbers, etc.) are needed
• The job will take weeks or months to complete

If your project goes beyond basic handyman services in San Antonio, a licensed general contractor ensures the job is done correctly, safely, and up to code.

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How to Decide Who to Hire

If you’re still unsure whether you need a handyman or a general contractor, consider these key questions:

1. How complex is the project? – Small fixes = handyman, major remodels = contractor.
2. Are permits required? – If so, you likely need a contractor.
3. Will multiple trades be involved? – If electricians, plumbers, or structural work are needed, a contractor is the better choice.
4. What’s your budget? – Handymen generally charge less per hour than contractors, but some jobs simply require professional oversight.

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Conclusion

Understanding when to hire a handyman versus a general contractor can make all the difference in completing your home project efficiently and within budget. For minor repairs and maintenance, hiring a handyman is a great solution. However, for larger renovations or structural changes, working with a licensed general contractor is the best way to ensure quality and compliance.

If you’re looking for handyman services in San Antonio or need a trusted general contractor for a bigger project, Built Right Building Solutions is here to help. Contact us today for expert advice and quality craftsmanship!