Common Handyman Jobs and Tasks (And When to Call a Professional)

If you’re a homeowner, chances are you’ve asked yourself at least once: “Is this something a handyman can do?”

Handymen fill a crucial gap between DIY fixes and hiring a full-scale contractor - but many homeowners aren’t sure what that line actually is.  This guide breaks down the most common handyman jobs and tasks, explains when a handyman is the right call, and shows when you should bring in a licensed contractor instead.

If you’re located in Northern Illinois or the North Shore suburbs, this will also help you decide whether hiring a local handyman makes sense for your specific situation.

What Does a Handyman Do?

A handyman handles small-to-medium home repairs, maintenance, and installations that don’t typically require architectural plans, major structural changes, or extensive permitting.

Think of a handyman as:

• A problem-solver

• A time-saver

• A way to knock out multiple tasks in one visit

Most homeowners hire a handyman when:

• The job is too big for DIY

• The job is too small for a contractor

• They want several repairs done efficiently

Interior Handyman Jobs (Most Common Requests)

These are the bread-and-butter handyman tasks and account for a large percentage of service calls.

Drywall & Wall Repairs

• Fixing nail pops and screw holes

• Repairing cracks from settling

• Patching holes from doors, furniture, or anchors

• Light water-damage repairs (non-structural)

If it can be patched, sanded, and blended - a handyman can usually handle it.

Painting & Touch-Ups

• Small rooms or accent walls

• Trim, doors, and baseboards

• Touch-ups before listing a home

• Painting after drywall repair

Handymen are ideal for precision work, not full-home repaints.

Doors, Trim, and Finish Carpentry

• Replacing interior doors

• Fixing sticking or misaligned doors

• Installing or repairing trim and molding

• Adjusting door hardware and hinges

These details dramatically affect how a home feels - and buyers notice them immediately.

Fixture Installation

• Light fixtures and ceiling fans

• Bathroom mirrors and accessories

• Towel bars, shelving, curtain rods

• Smart home accessories (thermostats, doorbells)

If the wiring already exists and no new circuits are required, this is usually handyman territory.

Flooring Repairs

• Replacing damaged laminate planks

• Minor hardwood repairs

• Transition strips and thresholds

• Vinyl plank spot fixes

Full floor replacements are often contractor jobs, but small repairs are ideal for a handyman.

Bathroom & Kitchen Handyman Tasks

These rooms create the most stress - and the most calls.

Bathroom Repairs

• Replacing faucets and fixtures

• Toilet repairs or replacement

• Vanity installation

• Caulking tubs and showers

• Fixing loose tile or grout touch-ups

If plumbing lines stay in place, a handyman can usually help.

Kitchen Repairs & Installations

• Replacing sinks or faucets

• Installing garbage disposals

• Cabinet hardware replacement

• Minor cabinet repairs

• Installing backsplashes (small areas)

Kitchens don’t always need a remodel - often they just need competent repairs.

Exterior Handyman Jobs

Exterior issues tend to escalate quickly if ignored.

Exterior Repairs

• Replacing rotted trim or fascia (small sections)

• Fixing loose siding panels

• Repairing deck boards or railings

• Adjusting exterior doors and locks

These repairs help prevent water damage and preserve home value.

Seasonal Maintenance

• Gutter cleaning and minor repairs

• Replacing dryer vents

• Sealing gaps and drafts

• Installing weatherstripping

Seasonal tasks are among the most overlooked - and the most cost-effective.

Safety & Accessibility Upgrades

Many homeowners hire a handyman to make their home safer or more functional.

• Grab bar installation

• Handrails for stairs

• Smoke and CO detector replacement

• Baby-proofing and child safety items

These jobs don’t look dramatic - but they matter.

Common Handyman Jobs for Home Sellers

If you’re preparing to sell, a handyman can be one of your smartest investments.

Typical pre-sale tasks include:

• Fixing inspection punch-list items

• Repairing drywall cracks

• Replacing broken fixtures

• Adjusting doors and cabinets

• Touch-up painting

These repairs help:

• Reduce buyer objections

• Speed up closings

• Increase perceived value

Many realtors recommend a handyman before listing.

What a Handyman Usually Cannot Do

A good handyman knows their limits - and should tell you honestly.

Jobs That Typically Require a Contractor

• Structural changes (removing walls, beams, foundations)

• Major electrical work (new panels, new circuits)

• Major plumbing reroutes

• Roofing replacements

• Large additions or remodels

If permits, engineering, or inspections are involved, a contractor is usually the right choice.

Handyman vs Contractor: How to Decide

Ask yourself:

1. Does this job change the structure of my home?

2. Does it require permits?

3. Is this a large, multi-week project?

If the answer is no, a handyman is often faster, more affordable, and more flexible.

If you’re unsure, a reputable handyman will tell you upfront.

Why Homeowners Hire a Handyman Instead of DIY

Most homeowners don’t call a handyman because they can’t do the job - they call because:

• They don’t have the time

• They don’t have the tools

• They want it done right the first time

Hiring a handyman:

• Prevents small issues from becoming big ones

• Saves weekends and frustration

• Allows multiple repairs in one visit

When to Call a Handyman

You should consider calling a handyman if:

• You have a growing “to-do” list

• You’re preparing to sell or buy a home

• You want repairs handled efficiently

• You’d rather not manage multiple trades

If you’re in Northern Illinois or the North Shore area, working with a local handyman also means faster response times and accountability.

Final Thoughts

A handyman isn’t a shortcut - they’re a smart solution for the right type of work.

Understanding what a handyman can (and can’t) do helps you:

• Save money

• Avoid delays

• Protect your home’s value

If you’re unsure whether a project is a good fit, the right handyman will tell you honestly - and point you in the right direction if it’s not.

Ready to Get Your Repairs Handled?

If you’re looking for a reliable local handyman to take care of repairs, maintenance, or pre-sale projects, reach out today. A quick conversation can save you weeks of stress - and a lot of guesswork.