🛠️ What’s the Difference Between a Handyman and a Contractor?

— And Why We're Proud to Be Both!

If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen wondering, “Should I call a handyman or a contractor for this?” — you’re not alone. It’s a common question, and getting the right help at the right time can save you both time and money.

Here’s the good news: With over 25 years of experience serving homes across the Halifax Regional Municipality, we’re licensed contractors and experienced handymen. That means we can do both — and we know exactly when each approach makes sense.

Let’s break it down, East Coast-style.

🧰 What Does a Handyman Do?

A handyman is your go-to for those smaller jobs around the house — the fixes, touch-ups, installs, and “I’ll get to it eventually” tasks that never seem to get done.

Whether you're in Bedford, Cole Harbour, Sackville, or right downtown Halifax, a good handyman can help you keep your home running smoothly without the stress or the big price tag of a renovation crew.

Common handyman services:

• Fixing leaky faucets

• Installing shelves or curtain rods

• Drywall repairs and paint touch-ups

• Replacing light fixtures

• Hanging TVs or artwork

• General home maintenance

  
  

These jobs are typically quick, don’t require permits, and can often be done in a single visit. Perfect for homeowners who just want the job done right — and done fast.

🛠️ Local Tip: If you’ve got a list of small things piling up, call a handyman before winter hits — Halifax weather has a way of making small problems bigger!

🏗️ What Does a Contractor Do?

A general contractor is needed when the job gets bigger — and more complex. These are projects that often require permits, licensed tradespeople, and coordination across multiple phases.

Whether you're planning a full kitchen renovation or an addition, a contractor has the tools (and the crew) to bring your vision to life.

Typical contractor-level work:

• Full kitchen and bathroom renovations

• Home additions or structural changes

• Decks, sheds, garages

• Electrical or plumbing upgrades

• Roofing and siding

• Permit-required work

Contractors handle the planning, paperwork, and project management — and make sure everything meets Nova Scotia Building Code.

🧱 In short: If it involves permits, major changes, or multiple trades, it’s time to bring in a contractor.

👷‍♂️ Why Being Both Matters

We’ve been proudly serving the Halifax region for over two decades — and in that time, we’ve worn both hats: handyman and contractor.

That means:✅ We take care of small repairs quickly and affordably✅ We can legally and safely tackle larger, permitted projects✅ We know when something is a simple fix… and when it’s a bigger issue in disguise✅ You only have to deal with one trusted local team — not a parade of strangers

💬 “From patching drywall to full bathroom remodels in Halifax, we’ve done it all. Being licensed and experienced in both roles means you get the right solution without the runaround.”

⚖️ Quick Comparison: Handyman vs Contractor

Project Type	Handyman	Contractor	We Do It ✅
Fixing a dripping tap	✅		✅
Painting one or two rooms	✅		✅
Installing a floating shelf	✅		✅
Full bathroom renovation		✅	✅
Building a deck or shed		✅	✅
Hanging light fixtures	✅		✅
Structural changes or additions		✅	✅
Jobs requiring permits in NS		✅	✅

⚠️ A Quick Note on Nova Scotia Rules

In Nova Scotia, certain types of work (like electrical, plumbing, or structural changes) legally require a licensed professional and, in many cases, a permit. Not all handymen are licensed for this — and hiring the wrong person can cost you big later on.

Because we have an array of licensed & highly skilled tradespeople at our fingertips, you can trust the job will be done safely, legally, and up to local code.

🤔 Not Sure Who to Call?

If the job is small, straightforward, and doesn’t involve permits — a handyman is the right fit. If the job is bigger, more complex, or requires planning and permits — you’ll need a contractor.

And if you’re somewhere in the middle? No problem. We’ll take a look, give you honest advice, and guide you toward the best (and most cost-effective) solution — even if it means not hiring us right away.

✅ Final Word: We’re Here for you!

Whether you’re in Halifax, Dartmouth, Sackville, or anywhere in the HRM, we’re proud to be the go-to team for:

• Small repairs

• Home improvements

• Full renovations

• and everything in between.

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With 20+ years of experience and a commitment to honest work, you can count on us to do the job right — big or small.

📞 [Contact us today] for a free estimate, or just to ask a few questions. We’re always happy to chat (and yes, we’ll even fix that squeaky door while we’re at it).