Handyman hourly rates are $50 to $80 on average, plus the cost of materials. Most handyman work costs $150 to $600, depending on the job's size and if the handyman is self-employed or corporate. Handymen who purchase materials may have a 20% to 50% markup or a trip charge of $30 to $80.

A handyman can legally do small jobs and repairs like painting a room, hanging a TV, unclogging a drain, patching a wall, replacing a ceiling fan, fixing a fence or gate, cleaning gutters, or replacing a toilet. Some states have limits on the amount handymen can legally charge before needing a license.

Only licensed handymen can do plumbing or electrical work. Although, a handyman may legally do small electrical and plumbing jobs in some states, like replacing a toilet. For larger projects, it's best to hire electricians or plumbers in your area.

Start by searching our list of handyman services near you. After finding and contacting potential candidates:

• Get at least three quotes to compare.
• Read reviews and check out their previous work on HomeGuide and Google.
• Select handyman contractors that are licensed, bonded, and experienced.
• Discuss rates and payment methods upfront.
• Avoid selecting the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
• Ask for at least a 1-year labor warranty.
• Get a full breakdown of all labor and material costs involved.
• Ask about their warranties and guarantees.
• Discuss job timelines, work hours, and expectations for larger projects.
• Avoid making payments upfront. Instead, pay when the work is completed.

When looking to hire a local handyman, ask the following questions:

• What type of work can you do?
• What is your hourly rate?
• Do you have a trip charge for getting materials?
• How much do you mark up materials?
• Can you provide a written estimate upfront?
• Do you have local references or a portfolio of your work?
• Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
• What hours do you work?
• How long will the job take?
• How do you handle additional work that arises?
• Do you provide a guarantee?
• How do you handle damages that happen on the job?
• Do you work alone, or will you use subcontractors?
• What’s your payment schedule?

After asking questions and comparing estimates, hire the best handyman in your area.

Many states have a “Handyman Exemption” that only requires a license for jobs over $500 to $10,000 or more, varying by state. In other states, a license is mandatory for all work. Many states also require worker’s compensation and liability insurance to protect against damage or accidents.

Handymen don't expect a tip. If the handyman goes above and beyond or spends more time than expected, a tip is appreciated. Most homeowners tip a handyman $10 to $20 or between 10% and 15% of the total job.