A handyman business is a great way to turn your skills into a steady income. Homeowners and businesses always need reliable repair and maintenance services. With the right approach, you can build a profitable, in-demand business with minimal startup costs. Follow these 10 steps to get started.
Step 1: Choose Your Services
Decide what types of jobs you’ll offer. Common handyman services include:
- Basic home repairs – Fixing drywall, replacing doors, repairing cabinets.
- Plumbing jobs – Fixing leaks, replacing faucets, unclogging drains.
- Electrical work – Installing light fixtures, replacing outlets (check licensing laws).
- Furniture assembly – Putting together desks, chairs, shelving units.
- Painting – Interior and exterior painting services.
- Appliance installation – Setting up dishwashers, microwaves, and washers/dryers.
Step 2: Get the Right Tools & Equipment
Invest in high-quality tools to provide professional service. Here’s a checklist:
✅ Cordless drill and screwdriver set
✅ Hammer, pliers, and wrench set
✅ Tape measure and level
✅ Ladder and step stool
✅ Circular saw and jigsaw
✅ Stud finder and voltage tester
✅ Safety gear (gloves, goggles, and work boots)
✅ Reliable vehicle to transport tools
Step 3: Register Your Business & Get Licensed
- Choose a business name and register it as an LLC or sole proprietorship. Find out how.
- Obtain business insurance to protect against accidents.
- Check state and local regulations for any required handyman licenses.
- Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) if hiring employees.
Step 4: Set Competitive Pricing
Pricing varies based on location, experience, and services offered. Here’s an example pricing guide:
| Service | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| General Handyman Work | $50 – $100 per hour |
| Plumbing & Electrical Repairs | $75 – $150 per hour |
| Furniture Assembly | $40 – $80 per hour |
| Interior Painting | $1 – $3 per square foot |
| Appliance Installation | $75 – $200 per unit |
Offer package deals for recurring clients and senior/military discounts.
Step 5: Market Your Business Locally
- Create a website using Wix or WordPress.
- Claim your Google My Business listing for local searches.
- Print flyers and business cards for hardware stores and local shops.
- Use social media ads to target local homeowners.
- Offer referral discounts to friends, family, and past customers.
Step 6: Secure Your First Clients
- Start by offering services to friends and family.
- Post before-and-after photos on Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, and Craigslist.
- Join TaskRabbit, Thumbtack, and Angi to find job leads.
- Partner with real estate agents and property managers for steady work.
- 7 more strategies to get clients.
Step 7: Provide Exceptional Service
To build a strong reputation:
- Arrive on time and in professional attire.
- Explain costs upfront and offer detailed quotes.
- Use high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting repairs.
- Offer a satisfaction guarantee to encourage repeat business.
Step 8: Manage Payments & Finances
- Accept payments via Square (https://squareup.com/) or PayPal.
- Use QuickBooks (https://quickbooks.intuit.com/) for accounting.
- Keep detailed records of expenses, invoices, and client payments.
Step 9: Expand Your Services
Once you’ve built a steady client base, consider adding:
- Deck repairs and power washing
- Gutter cleaning and exterior maintenance
- Smart home installation (thermostats, security cameras, doorbells)
- Small-scale remodeling services
- Window washing
Step 10: Scale Your Business
- Hire employees or subcontractors to handle more jobs.
- Invest in a branded truck wrap for mobile advertising.
- Offer maintenance packages for ongoing customer retention.
- Network with local businesses for commercial handyman contracts.
Pros & Cons of a Handyman Business
| Pros | Cons |
| Low startup costs | Requires physical labor |
| High demand for services | Must handle scheduling & admin tasks |
| Flexible work hours | Some jobs require licensing |
| Scalable business model | Equipment & tool maintenance costs |
Checklist to Launch Your Handyman Business
✅ Choose your services and gather tools
✅ Register your business and obtain necessary permits
✅ Set up a website and social media profiles
✅ Offer promotions to attract first-time clients
✅ Provide excellent customer service and request reviews
✅ Accept payments online and keep financial records
✅ Scale by adding new services and hiring help
Reputable Resources for Handyman Business Owners
- National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) – https://www.nari.org/
- HomeAdvisor Pro – https://pro.homeadvisor.com/ (Find local jobs)
- Small Business Administration (SBA) – https://www.sba.gov/ (Business startup resources)
Final Thoughts
Starting a handyman business is a great way to turn your skills into a profitable venture. With the right marketing, pricing, and customer service, you can build a strong reputation and expand over time. Get started today and take control of your own business success!
