Choosing the right professional for your construction project can make all the difference in quality, compliance, and long-term value for your home or business.
A licensed contractor is a professional who has met stringent state or local requirements, passed industry exams, and maintains insurance and bonding. Licensed contractors are authorized to manage larger, more complex construction projects, including remodels, structural repairs, roofing, and additions. Their work is regulated, documented, and inspected for compliance with building codes and safety standards.
A handyman, on the other hand, is typically a skilled generalist who can handle minor repairs, maintenance, and small-scale improvements. Handymen often work independently and are best suited for tasks such as drywall patching, painting touch-ups, fixture installation, and general home maintenance. While a handyman may have significant practical experience, they are not required to hold a contractor's license for minor jobs, and their scope is generally limited by law.
Licensed contractors are required by law to adhere to state and municipal regulations, including obtaining permits for projects, scheduling inspections, and ensuring all work meets applicable codes. This legal framework protects property owners by reducing liability, ensuring safety, and providing recourse in the event of disputes or defects.
Handymen are typically restricted from performing work requiring permits, structural changes, or electrical and plumbing upgrades. Hiring an unlicensed individual for regulated work can result in fines, failed inspections, or voided insurance claims. When compliance, warranty, and legal protection are priorities, working with a licensed contractor is essential.
Licensed contractors bring specialized expertise, project management skills, and a vetted team of tradespeople to every job. They are equipped to handle large-scale renovations, complex repairs, energy-efficient upgrades, and projects involving multiple trades. Their training ensures they understand best practices, material specifications, and code requirements for your area.
Handymen excel at smaller, routine tasks and can be a cost-effective choice for minor repairs or maintenance. For projects like replacing a faucet, repairing drywall, or minor carpentry, a qualified handyman can provide prompt, affordable service. For anything involving structural work, system upgrades, or significant investment, a licensed contractor’s expertise is crucial to safeguard your property’s longevity and value.
Handyman services are typically billed hourly or per task, making them attractive for simple jobs with clear parameters. However, these services rarely include project warranties, formal contracts, or long-term guarantees. The risk of non-compliance, workmanship issues, or lack of insurance can outweigh short-term savings, especially for complex or high-value projects.
Licensed contractors provide transparent estimates, formal contracts, and detailed scopes of work. Their projects are frequently covered under comprehensive warranties and backed by insurance and bonding. This protects your investment, ensures code compliance, and provides peace of mind that your project is managed by professionals who stand behind their work.
Selecting between a licensed contractor and a handyman depends on your project’s complexity, regulatory requirements, and desired outcome. For straightforward repairs and routine maintenance, a reputable handyman may be ideal. For remodels, roofing, structural upgrades, or projects requiring permits, a licensed contractor ensures quality, compliance, and long-term value.
Powerhouse Contracting offers licensed, bonded, and insured construction services throughout New Mexico. Our team delivers comprehensive project management, transparent pricing, and the Powerhouse Guarantee on all work. Whether you’re planning a home remodel, roofing upgrade, or exterior renovation, trust our experts to guide your next project from consultation to completion—with craftsmanship and compliance every step of the way.