Let’s get one thing out of the way right up front: handymen are great. They can tighten a loose cabinet, patch a bit of drywall, maybe even install a ceiling fan if you’re lucky. But when the job moves from a screwdriver to a set of architectural drawings, you might want to pause before you hand over the reins to someone with a toolbelt and no license.
In construction, there’s a fine line between “fix it” and “file for a permit.” And that line is exactly where licensed contractors step in. Knowing when to hire a licensed contractor versus a handyman isn’t just about money—it’s about safety, legality, and making sure your brand-new deck doesn’t double as a future lawsuit.
First, Let’s Talk Licensing
In Louisiana, anyone working on a residential construction project that costs more than $7,500—materials and labor included—is legally required to hold a state-issued contractor’s license. That license isn’t just a piece of paper to hang on the wall. It means the person passed exams, carries the right insurance, and is playing by the rules set by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors.
A handyman, by contrast, isn’t required to hold a license if the job stays under that $7,500 threshold. So yes, a handyman can fix your fence, repaint your shutters, or even lay down a little flooring. But once walls are coming down or foundations are being poured, it’s time to bring in someone with credentials—and a bit of legal liability to back it up.
Permits, Permits, Permits
Here’s where it gets tricky. Say you’re building an addition or remodeling a kitchen. These types of projects almost always require a permit. And permits don’t just magically appear—they need to be pulled by someone legally authorized to do the work.
Licensed contractors can do that. Handymen can’t. So, if you go the unlicensed route, don’t be surprised when the city inspector shows up and tells you to tear it all down. Permitting is about more than paperwork; it’s about protecting the structural integrity of your home—and by extension, your sanity.
The Insurance Angle
Accidents happen. A ladder tips, a pipe bursts, someone’s pickup truck backs into your garage door. This is where hiring a licensed contractor could save you a major headache. Licensed pros carry general liability and workers’ comp insurance—both of which protect you in case something goes wrong. Handymen may or may not be insured. If they’re not, guess who’s footing the bill?
And no, saying “but he seemed like a nice guy” won’t help in court.
The Warranty Factor
Most licensed contractors provide written contracts. These outline what’s being done, how long it’ll take, and how much it’s going to cost. More importantly, they include warranties. If something fails, the contractor’s on the hook to come back and fix it. That’s accountability.
A handyman? Well, maybe he answers his phone. Maybe he doesn’t. Good luck with that.
Cutting Corners Isn’t a Savings Plan
It’s easy to fall into the trap of “cheaper is better.” Trust me, after decades in construction, I’ve seen plenty of projects where a few bucks saved up front ended up costing thousands later. That new roof someone “threw up in a weekend”? Leaks in six months. The bathroom remodel without a licensed plumber? Now the shower drains into the crawl space.
Sure, a handyman might give you a price that makes you feel like you won the lottery. But unless that work is backed by licensing, permits, and inspection, the odds are you’ll pay for it one way or another.
When a Handyman Is the Right Call
Let’s be fair. Not every job needs a contractor. A handyman is perfect for patching holes, changing out light fixtures, installing baseboards, and other light-duty work. These tasks are usually fast, relatively low-risk, and unlikely to involve structural changes or plumbing/electrical systems. Just be sure to ask for references and confirm they’re insured.
And if you ever find yourself wondering, “Do I need a permit for this?”—that’s your signal to stop and call someone with a license.
Final Thoughts from the Job Site
Here’s the bottom line: licensed contractors exist for a reason. Regulations, building codes, permits—they all help make sure your house stays standing and your money doesn’t go up in smoke. There’s peace of mind in knowing that the person swinging the hammer is qualified to do so.
At E.C.O. Builders, we’ve been around long enough to see both sides of the story. Homeowners who tried to cut corners usually come to us asking how to fix what someone else started. Our answer? Next time, start with someone who’s legally allowed to finish it.
If it’s small and simple, call a handyman. If it’s big, structural, or sounds like the kind of thing that might collapse if it’s not done right—pick up the phone and get a licensed contractor. Your future self will thank you.
