Licensed Contractor vs. Handyman in Florida: What You Actually Need

When it comes to home repairs or improvements in Florida, one of the biggest questions homeowners face is: do I need a licensed contractor, or can a handyman handle this? The answer isn’t always obvious, but knowing the difference can save you time, money, and hassle.

When a Handyman Is Enough

In Florida, if your total job cost (including labor and materials) is under $500, and the work doesn’t require a permit or involve plumbing, electrical, HVAC, or structural changes, you don’t legally need a licensed contractor. A handyman can take care of these jobs safely, legally, and affordably.

That’s exactly where we at Handful of Fixes come in. We specialize in smaller projects that fit this sweet spot: legal, affordable, and done right the first time.

What a Handyman Can Legally Do in Florida

If your project doesn’t require a permit or licensed trade, chances are a handyman can help. Some common examples include:

• Installing customer-provided tile or flooring (under $500)

• Cabinet, shelf, and fixture installations

• Minor drywall repair and patching

• Hanging TVs, mirrors, or curtain rods

• Replacing doors, hardware, or trim

• Furniture assembly

• Small painting and touch-up jobs

  
  

If you’re unsure whether your project qualifies, just ask. We’re happy to explain what we can do.

Why Choose a Handyman? Quality Work, Lower Cost

Licensed contractors definitely have their place, especially for bigger, more complex jobs. But for simpler tasks like a floor install, cabinet replacement, or drywall patch, you might be paying for licenses and overhead you don’t actually need.

That can get expensive. Licensed contractors often charge between $75 and $150 per hour, plus additional markups. With a handyman, you’ll pay significantly less without sacrificing quality.

At Handful of Fixes, we keep our rates reasonable by focusing on what matters: skilled work done efficiently, within Florida’s legal limits, without unnecessary licenses or inflated costs.

How Our Customers Save

• By ordering and providing their own materials, customers avoid the typical markup contractors add for purchasing and storing supplies

• Bathroom refreshes like mirror, towel bar, or hardware replacement

• TV and shelf mounting without damage or hassle

• Small jobs that many contractors won’t even quote

  
  

If you live in Ocala, The Villages, Belleview, or Dunnellon and want affordable handyman help, we’re ready to assist.

When You Should Hire a Licensed Contractor

Sometimes, a handyman isn’t the right choice. You’ll want a licensed contractor if:

• Your job’s total cost exceeds $500 (materials and labor)

• The work involves plumbing, electrical, HVAC, or structural changes

• The project requires permits or inspections

• You’re doing major remodeling or new construction

  
  

We’ll always be upfront if your project is outside our legal scope, and can recommend trusted licensed pros when needed.

The Bottom Line: Know What You Need and What You Don’t

Hiring a handyman isn’t about cutting corners. It’s about hiring the right person for the job. For projects that don’t need permits, don’t involve plumbing or wiring, and cost less than $500, a skilled handyman can save you money and get the job done right.

Need Help? Let’s Talk.

Handful of Fixes is a local, owner-operated handyman service based in Ocala. We specialize in legal, affordable projects done with pride and professionalism. Serving Ocala, The Villages, Belleview, and Dunnellon.

Request a quote or ask what we’re legally allowed to help with. We’ll give you a straight answer, no pressure.

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