When something breaks, needs to be installed, or just doesn’t feel right in your home — your first thought might be, “I need a handyman.” And that’s often true. But knowing the limits of a handyman’s role is just as important as knowing when to call one.
At NYC Handy Pros, we believe in being transparent. So let’s break down:
- What a handyman can do
- What requires a licensed professional
- And why hiring a handyman doesn’t mean hiring an interior designer
What Does a Handyman Actually Do?
A handyman is a versatile problem solver — skilled in a wide range of repair and installation tasks.
Here are examples of common services we provide:
- Mounting TVs, shelves, curtains, and mirrors
- Repairing drywall, patching holes, painting
- Assembling furniture and hanging artwork
- Installing new hardware, fixtures, and doors
- Caulking, sealing, and basic maintenance
Think of us as your go-to for minor to mid-sized jobs that don’t require permits or licensed trade certifications.
We’re Not Interior Designers (And Here’s Why That Matters)
While we’re happy to make suggestions based on experience, most handymen are not trained designers. We don’t:
- Create full-room layouts or color schemes
- Offer mood boards or professional design plans
- Decide where your TV should go — we install it where you tell us
Why this matters:
To avoid confusion and costly redos, it’s important that you, the homeowner, know what you want — or hire a designer if you need help planning the look and feel of a space.
When to Hire a Licensed Electrician
You should always call a licensed electrician for:
- Installing or modifying wiring or breakers
- Adding new outlets or circuits
- Upgrading a fuse box or electrical panel
- Troubleshooting loss of power or exposed wires
Why: These jobs require a permit, carry major safety risks, and must meet strict NYC electrical codes.
When to Hire a Licensed Plumber
Call a licensed plumber for:
- Replacing or relocating water lines
- Major drain clogs or sewage backups
- Gas line connections or water heater installs
- Work that may require city inspections or permits
Why: Water damage, gas leaks, or code violations aren’t worth the risk — these jobs demand a licensed pro.
How NYC Handy Pros Handles It
Our team knows where our limits are — and we’ll tell you when a job is outside our scope.
We can:
- Handle the smaller jobs with speed and precision
- Refer you to trusted, licensed electricians and plumbers for the bigger tasks
- Collaborate with your designer (or follow your lead) to bring your vision to life
Conclusion:
Not every project needs a full contractor, and not every fix requires a specialist. But knowing when to call a handyman — and when to bring in a licensed pro — can save you money, time, and stress.
At NYC Handy Pros, we do it right — and we do what’s right for you.