Handyman as the name suggests someone who can do lots of different kinds of small jobs for homeowners at a small cost.

The question is when is it a handyman job and when is it something bigger. A good way to look at it is if the job takes a few hours for a few hundred dollars then it’s a handyman job.

Handyman services are easy for anyone to get into and that gets a lot of homeowners into trouble as it’s hard to know who’s good and who’s not. Referrals is a good way to find a handyman that’s honest and fair and does a good job.

Then there are specialist trades such as electricians, plumbers, carpet layers, window companies, painters, roofers, etc., that you can call for specific work in those specific areas. They are equipped to come in fast and do quality work and clean up and be finished. And in the case of electricians and plumbers they should have a Journeyman license – otherwise they’re just a handyman.

For larger more complicated projects such as bathroom and kitchen renovations or basement development requiring multiple trades and skilled workers a general contractor is the way to go.

A general contractor will have a trailer and shop with all the tools needed to do the job, construction materials and a crew of trades and skilled workers to complete the project.

A contractor will have an Alberta “Prepaid License” and is bonded and thus allowed to collect upfront deposits – it’s illegal for non-prepaid contractors to accept deposits – but they do and that’s the problem.

There are also fly-by-night contractors that have little or no relevant experience are unlicensed and often disappear with homeowner deposits and half-finished or not-even-started jobs. Avoid these.

Our advice to homeowners to avoid pitfalls in choosing handyman vs contractors is to follow these steps:

1. Check the internet – most reputable companies will be online
2. Ask for experience – 10+ years is a good start
3. Know the scope of your project – large jobs like bathrooms – choose a contractor – small few hour jobs – hire a handyman.
4. Ask for the Contractors Alberta license number– this can easily be verified with Service Alberta.
5. Get a detailed quote
6. Get a detailed contract

At Calgary Bath and Home Renovations, we pride ourselves in our 30 years of experience in home building and home renovations. We do specialize in bathrooms which are a popular renovation project for many homeowners today.

We have a special $7,999.00 package for a new 3 piece bathroom as the picture above shows – we’ve standardized the package with everything picked out and ready to install or you can customize it if you like. This bathroom is all tiled with all new modern fixtures and ready to use – most bathrooms like this take less than 2 weeks to finish.

Call me at 403-560-0810 for a free estimate.

Our Package Pricing
 2pc Powder Room Package $3,999
 3pc Main Bathroom Package $7,999
 4pc Master Ensuite Package $13,999
 5pc Master Ensuite Package $15,999
 3pc Handicap Package $9.,999

Call for a Free Estimate
403-560-0810