Starting a Handyman Business

Starting a handyman business is a good small business opportunity. There is a steady demand for handyman services and if you prove yourself to be reliable and efficient you can look forward to owning a profitable and rewarding small business.

• Skills You need to be familiar with common home repair and maintenance methods. A handyman usually does smaller jobs that bigger contractors or trade professionals such as plumbers and carpenters won't do. Common handyman jobs include installing and repairing light fixtures and ceiling fans, repairing faucets, fixing and replacing windows, hanging mirrors, shelves and pictures, fence and gate repairs, gutter repairs, painting and weatherproofing. Depending on their level of expertise handymen can perform more complex jobs such as installing cabinets. A big part of being a successful handyman is reliability and availability. Customers want a handyman who returns calls immediately, is available at short notice, shows up when arranged and who provides quality work. Many handyman jobs require hard, physical work so a certain level of physical fitness is required.
• Transport You will need a van or trailer to transport your larger equipment and materials to customers. A garage or some sort of storage space is useful for keeping equipment and supplies in.
• Tools When starting a handyman business you will need a good basic set of tools. This includes hammer, saw, stapler, screwdrivers, drill, level, pliers, wrench, ruler, tape measure, flashlight, utility knife, wire cutter. Other essential equipment includes a ladder, gloves, goggles and a breathing mask. Special tools can be bought as needed for specific jobs. More expensive equipment, such as a floor sander, can be rented or leased for a specific job.
• Insurance You need to have insurance to protect your handyman business against liability. This is relatively inexpensive but the amount of insurance required can depend on where your business is located. Find out more about obtaining Handyman Insurance.
• Licenses Depending on where you live you will need a business license and a handyman license that identifies your qualifications. Most people will not allow you to do work for them without proof of a license and most states require handymen to get licensed. Find out about obtaining a Handyman License.
• Customers There are a number of cost effective ways to successfully advertise and promote your handyman services. Decide on your target market and work out how best to reach them. You can find some great ideas at Finding Handyman Work and how to advertise your Handyman Business.

How much can I earn as a handyman? Find out about Handyman Rates here.

Practical tips for starting a handyman service. Read what experienced handymen have to say about Starting a Handyman Service.

Starting a handyman business is not difficult. Keep learning, work hard and you can grow your handyman service into a very profitable small business.

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A handyman business can be both profitable and rewarding

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