Becoming a handyman can be an excellent small business opportunity. There is an ongoing demand for home repair and maintenance services and a steady need for reliable and efficient handyman services. American homes are getting older and it is estimated that the market for handyman services is increasing by about 4% annually. Start up costs are low and running costs minimal with solid profit potential. Here we answer your questions about starting a handyman business.
What do I need to become a handyman?
Sound knowledge and some experience of home repair and maintenance. Typically home owners require handymen to carry out the following sort of projects – install and repair light fixtures, faucet and toilet repair, fixing windows, hanging shelves, gutter, fence and gate repairs, painting and weather-proofing, damp-proofing, sanding and maintaining wooden floors, windows and decks, installing curtain rods, door and lock repair amongst others. Reliability and a commitment to quality workmanship will ensure a solid customer base. You will need a van or trailer to transport your equipment and a good set of tools. Speciality tools can always be leased for specific jobs.
What are the legal requirements for becoming a handyman?
Most states require that handymen get licensed. Each state has different licensing requirements and different type of handyman jobs demand different categories of licensing. To find out the type of handyman license you need contact your State Contractor Licensing Board. It also advisable to obtain insurance to protect you small business against liability.
Where will I find handyman jobs?
Once you have secured your first customers you will find that word of mouth will help you to establish a profitable customer base. To get your first handyman jobs you can use a number of affordable advertising tools. Create business cards and hand them out to as many contacts as possible. Create a flyer advertising your services. Distribute these to potential customers such as seniors and dual income households. Door hangers are another effective marketing tool. They are cost effective and directly reach your target market. Car door magnets and lawn signs are other good promotional items for your handyman service. There are a number of online handyman databases where you can list your services. Craigslist is another option for online advertising. Try the traditional advertising method – advertise in your local paper.
What sort of handyman rates can I earn?
You rates should be competitive for your area. Research local handyman rates. You can charge by the hour or by the job. Initially it may be better to charge an hourly rate until you have a clear idea of how long a particular project takes.
If you enjoy do-it-yourself and are prepared to put in the hours becoming a handyman can be a profitable small business opportunity. Find out much more about starting your own handyman business at Start a Handyman Business.
Julia Derby’s website My Home Business Ideas offers a free and practical guide to starting a home based business from finding the right home business idea to planning, setting up and marketing your own home based business. An information-packed site that will set you on the path to success with your own small business.