Do you have these questions in your mind?
- How to start a Handyman Business?
- How much does it cost to start a Handyman Business?
- How to find the best location to open a Handyman Business?
- How can I make my Handyman Business profitable?
In this article, you will find answers to all your questions. So please grab a cup of coffee, and let’s get started.
Table of Contents
What is the Handyman Service Business?
A handyman service business is a type of service that provides general repair, maintenance, and installation services for both residential and commercial customers.
The services provided by a handyman can range from fixing a leaky faucet or installing a ceiling fan to building a deck or repairing a fence. Handymen are typically skilled in multiple trades and can provide various services, including plumbing, electrical, carpentry, painting, and more.
They offer convenient and affordable solutions for minor repairs and home improvement projects that do not require the services of a specialized contractor.
Market Insight: In the UK, Handyman Service industry was valued at £32.2 billion. While in the US, this market was valued at over $377.6 billion.
Types of Handyman Business Models
Different types of business models can be applied to a handyperson service.
Here are some standard models:
- On-Demand Handyman Services:
This model involves providing on-demand handyman services through a digital platform or app. Customers can request services, and the handyman can accept or decline the request based on availability. This model provides flexibility to the handyman and convenience to the customer.
- Subscription-based Handyman Services:
This model offers a subscription-based service that provides customers access to several monthly handyman hours. This model offers steady revenue and predictable work for the handyman.
- Project-based Handyman Services:
This model provides handyman services for specific projects, such as remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, building a deck, or installing a new roof. This model requires more planning and project management skills but can be more profitable.
- Home Maintenance Contracts:
This model offers ongoing home maintenance contracts to customers, such as monthly or quarterly visits, to perform regular maintenance tasks, such as cleaning gutters, changing air filters, and inspecting the home for potential issues.
- Franchise Handyman Services:
This model involves operating a handyman service as part of a more extensive franchise network, providing access to marketing, training, and operational support.
Remember, as a startup, your goal should be to keep your costs low and depend on your skills. If you push the process and try to go full-service from the very beginning, there is a good possibility that you’ll be overburdened and may get lost in the process.
Pros and Cons of a Handyman Service Business
Pros of a Handyman Service Business include:
- Flexibility in scheduling and work hours
- Ability to work independently and be your boss
- Opportunity to use and develop a wide range of skills
- High demand for home maintenance and repair services
- Potential for steady work and repeat business
- Low startup costs and overhead expenses
- Can provide a valuable service that helps customers maintain their homes
Cons of a Handyman Service Business include:
- Physical demands of the job and potential for injury or accidents
- Difficulty in finding and retaining customers
- Competition from other handymen and service providers
- Irregular income and difficulty in predicting work volume
- Potential for job cancellations or changes at the last minute
- Need for ongoing marketing and networking to grow the business
- Limited growth potential without hiring additional staff or expanding service
Trends and Challenges in a Handyman Service Business
Trends in the Handyman Service Business
1. Growing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable home maintenance and repair services
2. Increasing adoption of digital platforms and apps for on-demand handyman services
3. Greater emphasis on customer experience and satisfaction, focusing on quality and personalized service.
Challenges in the Handyman Service Business
1. Shortage of skilled labor and difficulty in finding qualified handymen
2. Increasing regulations and licensing requirements for handymen in some regions
3. Challenges in marketing and branding to stand out in a crowded market
Investment required for your Handyman Service Business
The investment required for a handyman service can vary depending on location, services offered, and business model.
Here is a rough estimate of the one-time setup costs and investment required for starting a handyman service:
- Business registration and licensing:
$500 to $1,500 - Insurance and bonding:
$2,000 to $4,000 per year - Tools and equipment:
$5,000 to $10,000 - Vehicle:
$10,000 to $30,000 - Marketing and advertising:
$1,000 to $5,000 - Office space and utilities:
$1,500 to $5,000 - Hiring staff (if necessary):
$500 to $5,000 per employee
The estimated one-time setup cost for starting a handyman service can range from $20,000 to $60,000.
Note: Ongoing expenses such as vehicle maintenance, tool replacement, and marketing must also be factored into the business plan.
How much will you make as a Handyman Service Business?
The earnings of a handyman service business can vary widely depending on factors such as the location, size of the company, services offered, and pricing strategies.
On average, according to payscale.com, the hourly rate for a handyman in the US is around $24 per hour. However, this can range from $20 to $80 per hour, depending on experience and location.
As a business owner, the earnings will depend on the business’s profitability, which can vary based on expenses such as labor, supplies, and marketing costs.
Market Insight: One of the biggest Handyman Service Businesses in the world, the Mr. Handyman, has over 200 locations worldwide and offers various services, including home repairs, maintenance, and household items installation.
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Equipment required for a Handyman Service Business
Here’s a checklist of some common equipment and tools needed for a handyman business:
- Basic hand tools
(e.g. hammer, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, tape measure, level) - Power tools
(e.g. drill, circular saw, jigsaw, reciprocating saw) - Safety equipment
(e.g. goggles, gloves, work boots) - Ladders
(e.g. step ladder, extension ladder) - Work vehicle
(e.g. van, truck, trailer) - Tool storage
(e.g. tool chest, tool bags) - Hardware and fasteners
(e.g. screws, nails, bolts, anchors) - Painting supplies
(e.g. brushes, rollers, paint trays) - Electrical supplies
(e.g. wiring, outlets, switches) - Plumbing supplies
(e.g. pipes, fittings, faucets) - Cleaning supplies
(e.g. broom, mop, vacuum cleaner) - Lawn and garden tools
(e.g. lawn mower, leaf blower, trimmer) - Materials for repairs and installations (e.g. drywall, wood, tile, cement)
- Mobile device and app for scheduling and invoicing
- Business cards, marketing materials, and website
The specific equipment and tools needed may vary depending on the types of services offered by the handyman business.
Good Franchisee to look into in US & UK
US:
Mr. Handyman
With over 200 locations across the US and Canada, Mr. Handyman offers a wide range of handyman services, from carpentry and electrical work to plumbing and painting.
Website: https://www.mrhandyman.com/
Ace Handyman Services
Formerly known as Handyman Matters, Ace Handyman Services has over 100 locations across the US and offers a variety of services, including home repairs, remodels, and maintenance.
Website: https://www.acehandymanservices.com/
Handyman Connection
With over 25 years of experience, Handyman Connection has over 60 locations across the US and Canada, providing services such as electrical work, plumbing, and carpentry.
Website: https://www.handymanconnection.com/
House Doctors
House Doctors has over 90 locations across the US and offers services such as home repairs, maintenance, and remodeling. Their team of experts can handle projects of all sizes and complexities.
Website: https://www.housedoctors.com/
The Honey Do Service
The Honey Do Service has over 100 locations across the US and offers a variety of home improvement services, including repairs, remodeling, and maintenance. Their team of professionals can handle any project, big or small.
Website: https://honeydoservice.net/
UK:
Mr. Handyman
With over 10 years of experience in the UK, Mr. Handyman offers a range of services, including plumbing, electrical work, and painting. They pride themselves on providing quality service at an affordable price.
Website: https://www.mrhandyman.co.uk/
Local Handyman Services
With locations across the UK, Local Handyman Services provides a variety of services, including plumbing, electrical work, and home repairs. Their team of professionals is available to tackle any job, big or small.
Website: https://localhandymanservices.co.uk/
Fantastic Handyman
Fantastic Handyman offers a range of services across London, including plumbing, electrical work, and painting. They guarantee their work and pride themselves on providing excellent customer service.
Website: https://fantastichandyman.co.uk/
Handyman Express
Handyman Express offers a variety of services across London, including repairs, remodeling, and maintenance. Their team of professionals is available 24/7 to handle any emergency job.
Website: https://www.handymanexpress.co.uk/
Hometech-UK
With over 10 years of experience in the UK, Hometech-UK provides a range of services, including plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry. They offer a free consultation and estimate for all jobs.
Website: https://www.hometech-uk-ltd.co.uk/
Licenses and Certification Needed for a Handyman Business
The licenses and certifications required for a handyman service business may vary depending on the location and services provided.
Some examples of licenses and certificates that may be needed:
- Business license:
A general business license is typically required to operate any business.
- Contractor’s license:
Depending on the state or locality, a handyman service business may need a contractor’s license to perform specific work, such as plumbing or electrical.
- Insurance:
Liability and workers’ compensation insurance may be necessary to protect the business and its employees.
- Building permits:
Some cities or counties may require permits for certain types of home repairs or remodeling projects.
- Certification in specific skills:
Certification in particular skills such as plumbing, electrical work, or HVAC may help establish customer credibility and provide an advantage over competitors.
- Safety training:
Some states or localities may require safety training for workers who handle hazardous materials or perform dangerous jobs.
Note: Researching the specific licenses and certifications required for a handyman service business in your area is essential to ensure local laws and regulations compliance.
The skills needed for a handyman service can vary depending on the benefits offered.
Some common skills and certifications that may be required:
1. General knowledge of basic construction, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems.
2. Knowledge of safety procedures and regulations.
3. Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and manuals.
4. Good communication and customer service skills.
5. Time management and organizational skills.
6. Attention to detail and ability to problem-solve.
7. A valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
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Service List for a Handyman Service Business
Here is a list of services that a handyman service business can offer:
- Carpentry and woodworking
(e.g. installing shelves, building furniture) - Electrical repairs and installations
(e.g. installing lighting fixtures, outlets, switches) - Plumbing repairs and installations
(e.g. fixing leaks, unclogging drains, installing toilets) - Painting and wall repairs
(e.g. painting walls, patching holes) - Door and window repairs and installations
(e.g. fixing or replacing locks, installing new doors or windows) - Flooring repairs and installations
(e.g. installing or repairing hardwood, tile, or laminate floors) - Drywall repairs and installations
(e.g. patching holes, installing new drywall) - Home maintenance and repairs
(e.g. fixing leaky faucets, repairing or replacing gutters) - Outdoor repairs and installations
(e.g. building decks, installing fences, repairing or painting exterior surfaces) - Furniture assembly and repairs
- Home security system installation
- HVAC repairs and maintenance
(e.g. changing air filters, cleaning ducts) - Moving and storage assistance
- Pressure washing and exterior cleaning
- Emergency repairs and maintenance services.
Note: The specific services offered may vary depending on the skills and expertise of the handyman, as well as the needs of the local market.
Tips on growing your Handyman Service Business
Here are some tips for growing a handyman service business:
- Expand your services:
Consider offering new services that complement your existing offerings, such as home cleaning or lawn care.
- Focus on customer satisfaction:
Providing excellent customer service and ensuring your customers are happy with your work can lead to positive reviews and word-of-mouth referrals.
- Develop a robust online presence:
A website and social media accounts can help potential customers find your business and learn more about your services.
- Network with other businesses:
Partnering with other industries, such as real estate agents or property management companies, can help generate new leads and referrals.
- Invest in marketing:
Advertising through online channels, such as Google Ads or Facebook Ads, can help target potential customers in your local area.
- Hire additional staff:
As your business grows, you may need other handymen and administrative staff to meet demand.
- Offer promotions or discounts:
Running promotional campaigns or offering discounts to new customers can help attract new business and encourage repeat business from existing customers.
- Develop a referral program:
Offering incentives to customers who refer new business to your company can help generate new leads and customers.
Remember, growing a business takes time and effort. So staying focused on providing quality service and building a positive reputation in your local community is essential.
Conclusion
Starting a handyman service business can be a rewarding and profitable venture if done right. Remember to always prioritize customer satisfaction, build a strong online presence, and invest in the right tools and equipment.
With hard work, dedication, and a passion for helping others, you can build a successful handyman service business that brings your community together and provides a valuable service to those in need. So don’t hesitate, take the leap and start your journey towards building a successful handyman service business today!
Want to Save Time in your Business Launch?
- How to Create a Business Plan
- What is Market Research, USP, Niche & Positioning
- How to find a suitable name for your business
- How to create your brand image (Logo + Branding)
- How to Register Your Business
- How to Register for Taxes
- How to get Licenses / Permits
- How to Open a Business Bank Account
- How to Get Business Insurance
- Which Payment Processing Terminal (POS) to buy
- How to get Funds for your Business
- How to do Sales & Marketing – Offline & Online
- Why have a Website / Blog / Social Media
- How to build & train your Dream Team
- How to provide Excellent Customer Service
- Buying an Old Business Vs Franchisee Vs Own Brand from Scratch
Handpicked inspirational Youtube videos for you
Handyman Makes $1,000 Per Day (See How He’s Grown His Business) – YT Channel ‘UpFlip’
$2,000 In One Day As A Handyman | What He Does | THE HANDYMAN | – YT Channel ‘The Handyman’
A. A handyman can offer a wide range of services, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, painting, tiling, and general home repairs and maintenance.
A. A handyman service business requires a wide range of skills, such as basic home repair and maintenance, plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, and more. You should also have good communication and customer service skills.
A. Licensing and certification requirements vary by state and municipality. In some areas, a general contractor’s license may be required, while in others, no license is necessary. It’s important to research the requirements in your area and obtain any necessary licenses and certifications.
A. The amount of capital required to start a handyman service business can vary depending on factors such as equipment costs, marketing expenses, and overhead costs. It’s important to create a detailed business plan to determine your startup costs and funding needs.
A. There are many ways to find customers for your handyman service business, including online advertising, networking with local businesses, word-of-mouth referrals, and more. Building a strong online presence and developing a positive reputation in your local community can also help attract new customers.
