How to Become a Handyman (Wrenching Your Way Up)

If you’ve ever dreamed of using your practical skills to solve everyday problems or wondered what it takes to become a handyman, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll explore the EXACT steps you need to take to kickstart your career as a handyman. We’ll discuss:

• The skills you need.
• The necessary training and certification.
• How to land a job as a handyman.

So, whether you’re a DIY enthusiast eager to turn a hobby into a profession, or someone looking to acquire a new trade, stay tuned.

We’re about to unwrap the plan to become a successful handyman.

Let’s get started!

Steps to Become a Handyman

 

Step 1: Research the Profession

Before starting your journey as a handyman, it’s crucial to understand the profession thoroughly.

You need to research different aspects of the role, such as the skills required, everyday tasks, potential work environments, and the overall scope of the field.

Handymen are skilled in a broad range of repair tasks, typically around the home.

These tasks may include trade skills, repair work, maintenance work, both interior and exterior, and are sometimes described as odd jobs, fix-up tasks, and include light plumbing jobs such as fixing a leaky toilet or light electric jobs such as changing a light fixture.

Spend time online researching the responsibilities of a handyman, the tools they commonly use, and the types of problems they frequently address.

You should also look into the certifications and training programs available, the average income, and the overall job market for handymen.

Engage in discussions with professionals in the field, attend workshops, and follow related online forums and blogs to get a comprehensive understanding of the profession.

This will give you a clear picture of what to expect and prepare you for the upcoming steps in your career journey.

 

Step 2: Acquire Basic Handyman Skills

As a handyman, you will need a wide range of basic skills that cover many types of home repair or maintenance work.

This can include carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, painting, and more.

It’s crucial to learn these skills to be able to take on various tasks your clients may require.

To acquire these skills, you could enroll in local vocational or community college classes that teach practical trade skills.

Taking part in a trade school program for general maintenance repair may also be beneficial.

These programs often cover a variety of trades and give you an understanding of building codes and safety procedures.

On-the-job training is another effective way to acquire handyman skills.

Consider working with an experienced handyman who can provide you with hands-on experience and guidance.

You could also start by doing small repair or maintenance jobs at home or for friends and family to practice your skills.

Remember, the more diverse your skill set, the more valuable you will be as a handyman.

Therefore, continuous learning and upgrading your skills is a must in this role.

 

Step 3: Get Relevant Education or Training

To work as a handyman, you don’t necessarily need a formal education, but it can be beneficial to have some kind of training or educational background in a trade.

This might include a high school diploma or a GED, along with coursework or a certification program in a relevant field such as construction, carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work.

Trade schools and community colleges often offer courses and programs that can provide you with the fundamental knowledge you need for this job role.

You may choose to attend full-time or part-time, depending on your current commitments.

Further, hands-on training is crucial in this field.

You can obtain it through apprenticeships or entry-level jobs under the supervision of an experienced handyman.

This allows you to learn practical skills and techniques, understand safety protocols, and get acquainted with the tools and equipment used in various handyman tasks.

Continuing education is also important as it allows you to keep up with new techniques, tools, and safety regulations.

You may also decide to specialize in a specific area such as plumbing or electrical work, and obtaining specialized certifications can enhance your skills and employability.

 

Step 4: Gain Practical Experience

Gaining practical experience is a critical step in becoming a handyman.

This hands-on experience will allow you to apply and practice the skills you have learned during your training.

You can get this experience by volunteering for repair projects, working on your own home, or assisting a skilled handyman.

It’s important to gain experience in a variety of areas such as basic plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, and general home maintenance.

This will give you a well-rounded skill set and make you more valuable to potential clients.

During this time, take note of any specialty areas you particularly enjoy.

As you progress in your career, you may choose to specialize in these areas.

It’s also beneficial to gain customer service experience during this time.

A significant part of being a handyman is dealing with customers, so any experience you can get in this area will be helpful.

Remember that the objective is not just to acquire skills but to become proficient and efficient in using them.

The more experience you gain, the more comfortable you’ll be tackling a variety of repair and maintenance tasks.

 

Step 5: Familiarize Yourself with Safety Standards

As a handyman, you’ll often be dealing with various tools and machinery which may pose potential risks if not handled properly.

Therefore, knowing and adhering to safety standards is crucial.

This might include knowledge of electrical safety when dealing with wiring tasks, safe lifting techniques for heavy objects, or wearing protective gear when necessary.

Different tools and tasks will have varying safety protocols, and it’s your responsibility to know what these are before undertaking a job.

Some of these safety measures will be learned through your training and work experience, but you can also take additional courses or earn certificates from safety organizations.

You can also benefit by staying updated on the latest safety protocols and regulations in the industry.

This can be done by joining local handyman associations, subscribing to trade magazines, or attending industry expos.

Remember, safety is not just for your own protection but also for the clients and the integrity of their property.

Demonstrating your commitment to safety can also be a selling point when marketing your services, as it provides reassurance to potential clients.

 

Step 6: Purchase or Assemble a Tool Kit

To become a handyman, you will need a variety of tools to perform different tasks.

You may already have some basic tools such as a hammer, screwdriver, or tape measure.

However, the scope of your work as a handyman will dictate the tools you need.

Common handyman tools include power tools, hand tools, and specialty tools for various tasks like plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry.

Make sure you have the necessary tools to handle the majority of your work orders before starting.

This may include a drill, wrench set, pliers, saw, utility knife, level, stud finder, and so on.

Quality is key when it comes to tools because cheap tools can break easily, thus not suitable for professional use.

Spend some time researching which brands provide the best quality for the price and consider investing in these.

Remember, safety is important.

So, always have a good pair of safety glasses, work gloves, and other relevant safety equipment.

Additionally, purchase a tool belt or tool box to keep your tools organized and easily accessible.

This will not only save you time but will also present you as a professional.

As you gain more experience and take on more complex jobs, you can further expand your tool kit.

Always be sure to maintain your tools and replace any that become worn or broken.

 

Step 7: Decide on Specialization if Desired

While it is not necessary to specialize in a specific field as a handyman, doing so can help you stand out from the competition and attract a more niche clientele.

For instance, you could choose to specialize in home repairs, remodeling, plumbing, electrical work, or even carpentry.

A specialization can make your services more valuable and can allow you to charge higher rates.

For example, if you decide to specialize in plumbing, you would gain in-depth knowledge and skills in this specific area, making you a go-to person for any plumbing-related issues.

This decision should ideally be based on your personal interests, strengths, and the market demand.

Try out different fields and tasks in the early stages of your handyman career to get a feel for what you enjoy and excel at.

It’s also important to consider the needs of your local market.

If there’s a high demand for a particular service in your area that few handymen offer, specializing in that area could be a smart business move.

Keep in mind, though, that even if you decide to specialize, it’s still important to maintain a broad range of general handyman skills.

This will ensure you can handle a variety of jobs and won’t miss out on potential work.

 

Step 8: Obtain Necessary Licenses or Certifications

Depending on your location and the specific services you’ll offer as a handyman, you may need to obtain certain licenses or certifications.

It’s crucial to research the local regulations and laws in your area to understand what is required.

You might need a general contractor license, or a specialized license for certain trades such as plumbing or electrical work.

Some jurisdictions may not require a license for minor repair work, but for larger projects, a permit may be needed.

Having the appropriate licenses and certifications not only ensures your business is legal, it also boosts your credibility with potential clients.

Additionally, you might consider becoming a Certified Handyman Professional (CHP) or obtaining a similar certification from a recognized industry organization.

This can help you stand out from other handymen, and shows clients that you are serious about your profession.

Remember to keep your licenses and certifications updated, as they usually have an expiry date.

Regularly participating in continuing education programs can help keep your skills sharp, stay updated with the latest industry standards, and maintain the validity of your certifications.

 

Step 9: Consider Getting Insured

As a handyman, it’s important to consider getting insured.

This not only protects you in case of accidents or damage while on the job, but it also builds trust with your clients as they know they are covered if anything goes wrong.

There are various types of insurance available for handymen such as public liability insurance, which covers legal costs and any awarded damages if you are taken to court; personal accident insurance, which can provide a weekly payment if you are unable to work due to injury; and tool insurance, which can cover the cost of replacing your tools if they are stolen or damaged.

Remember to shop around for the best coverage at a price that suits your budget.

You can also consider joining a professional association for handymen, as they often offer access to discounted insurance options.

Insurance may seem like an extra expense, but it can save you significant costs in the long run.

It’s a sign of professionalism and commitment to your trade, which can help you stand out from the competition.

 

Step 10: Build Your Reputation Through Small Jobs

As a handyman, your reputation is one of your most valuable assets.

After you’ve completed your training and obtained the necessary licenses, start by taking on small jobs.

This could be anything from fixing a leaky faucet to painting a room or assembling furniture.

By successfully completing these small tasks, you can start to build up a portfolio of work and a list of satisfied clients.

Always strive to do your best work, even for these small jobs, as word-of-mouth recommendations can greatly aid in your career advancement.

In addition, ask your satisfied clients to leave positive reviews on online platforms and on your personal website, if you have one.

This can help you attract new customers and establish your reputation as a competent, reliable handyman.

Remember, every job, no matter how small, is an opportunity to prove your skills and reliability.

Your commitment to quality service in these smaller tasks will pave the way for bigger projects in the future.

 

Step 11: Market Your Services

As a handyman, it’s crucial to effectively market your skills and services to gain clientele.

Begin by identifying your target market, which could include homeowners, businesses, or rental property owners.

Once you know who your potential clients are, you can tailor your marketing messages to suit their specific needs and interests.

Start by creating a professional business card and flyers detailing your skills and the services you offer.

You could also design a website, showcasing your previous work, customer testimonials, and a detailed list of services you provide.

The website should also include contact information so potential clients can easily reach out to you.

Use social media platforms to promote your services as well.

This can be an effective way to reach a larger audience.

Regularly update your social profiles with information about your recent work or any promotional offers.

Consider online advertisement platforms, such as Google AdWords or Facebook Ads, to reach a wider audience.

These platforms can help you target your ads to your local area, increasing the likelihood of finding clients in your vicinity.

Additionally, network with other professionals in the home improvement industry.

They can often refer clients to you or provide opportunities for collaborative projects.

Remember, word-of-mouth can be a powerful tool in this trade.

Deliver excellent customer service and encourage satisfied customers to recommend your services to others.

This can help you build a strong reputation and a loyal client base.

 

Step 12: Manage Your Business Efficiently

As a handyman, managing your business efficiently is critical for success.

This involves keeping track of your customers, orders, invoices, and financial records.

You may also need to plan and organize your work schedule to ensure that you complete all jobs on time.

To help manage your business, consider using business management software designed for handymen.

These programs can help with scheduling, invoicing, and even finding new clients.

You should also keep a record of all expenses related to your business, such as tools, materials, and any necessary travel expenses, for tax purposes.

In addition to managing the day-to-day operations of your business, it’s also crucial to develop a long-term business strategy.

This could involve expanding your service offerings or targeting a new customer base.

Regularly reviewing and updating your business plan can help keep your business on track for success.

Remember, efficient management is not just about paperwork and finances.

It’s also about making sure your customers are satisfied with your work.

Always aim to provide high-quality service and handle customer complaints promptly and professionally.

By doing so, you can build a good reputation, which is vital for attracting new customers and retaining existing ones.

Furthermore, you should continue to improve your skills and stay updated with the latest tools and techniques in the industry.

Ongoing learning and development is a crucial aspect of managing a successful handyman business.

You can attend workshops, trade shows, or join online forums and communities to keep abreast of the latest trends and advancements in your field.

Overall, managing your handyman business efficiently requires a combination of good business practices, customer service, and continuous learning and development.

 

Step 13: Keep Learning and Updating Your Skills

As a handyman, you need to constantly upgrade your skills and knowledge base.

The industry is dynamic, with new tools, technologies, and techniques emerging frequently.

It is essential to stay up-to-date to meet the varying needs and expectations of your clients.

Attend workshops, trade shows, and seminars related to your field to gain exposure to the latest trends and practices.

You can also consider enrolling in short-term courses or online training programs to learn about new materials, repair techniques, and construction methods.

Part of keeping your skills fresh is also maintaining and upgrading your toolset.

Invest in quality tools that can make your work more efficient and safe.

Subscribing to trade magazines and joining handyman forums or online communities can also be beneficial.

These platforms not only offer a wealth of information but also provide the opportunity to network with other professionals in your field.

Remember, the best handymen are not only those who have a wide variety of skills but also those who never stop learning.

Continuous learning and adaptation are key to longevity and success in the handyman industry.

 

Step 14: Network with Other Professionals

As a handyman, it’s important to engage and network with other professionals in the trade.

This can be done through attending trade shows, joining local handyman associations, and participating in online forums or groups dedicated to the handyman profession.

Networking can provide you with opportunities to learn from more experienced professionals, gain referrals, and stay updated on the latest tools, techniques and trends in the industry.

It’s also beneficial to establish good relationships with suppliers and local businesses.

They can provide valuable advice, offer special deals on equipment and materials, and may also refer customers to you.

Remember, your reputation is essential in this line of work, so always maintain a professional attitude when interacting with colleagues and clients.

Networking not only helps you learn and grow professionally, but it can also play a crucial role in the expansion and success of your handyman business.

In addition, consider becoming a mentor to a new handyman.

This will further establish your presence in the community, and it can be a rewarding experience to pass on your knowledge and skills to the next generation of handymen.

 

Handyman Roles and Responsibilities

A Handyman handles various repair and maintenance tasks in homes, businesses, and public buildings.

They have a broad range of skills in different trades, from plumbing and electrical to painting and carpentry, and are typically self-employed or work for a maintenance company.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

 

Home and Building Maintenance

• Perform basic tasks including painting and filling crevices, clean facilities and manage maintenance repairs.
• Perform minor fixes, such as repairing hardware, damage to walls, etc.
• Install appliances and equipment.

 

Conducting Repairs

• Conduct general upkeep procedures (e.g. landscaping).
• Repair equipment or appliances.
• Troubleshoot breakdowns and perform preventative maintenance.

 

Inspection and Diagnostics

• Inspect and diagnose issues with machinery and equipment.
• Perform routine maintenance checks.

 

Plumbing

• Unclog drains and fix leaks.
• Install and repair plumbing fixtures.

 

Electrical Work

• Perform simple electrical installation and repair work.
• Replace light bulbs and fixtures.

 

Carpentry

• Perform basic carpentry tasks, such as repairing furniture.
• Install doors, cabinetry, and windows.

 

Landscaping

• Maintain outdoor areas, such as gardens and patios.
• Perform basic tasks, such as mowing lawns, pruning shrubs, etc.

 

Communication

• Communicate with clients about what they want to be done.
• Explain the process and answer questions about installation and repair work.

 

Inventory Management

• Keep company vehicle and equipment properly serviced, clean, and in good working order.
• Manage inventory and order supplies and equipment as needed.

 

Safety Compliance

• Ensure the safe use of equipment and schedule regular maintenance.
• Follow all safety precautions and regulations.

 

Continuous Learning

• Stay updated on industry standards and any new innovative tools and machines that could benefit clients.
• Attend workshops, trade shows, and seminars to stay up-to-date with new strategies and tools.

 

What Does a Handyman Do?

A Handyman is a versatile professional skilled in performing various repair and maintenance tasks around homes, commercial establishments, or offices.

They are generally self-employed, although some may be employed by property management companies, construction firms, or maintenance departments of large organizations.

Handymen handle a broad range of tasks, which can include anything from minor electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, painting, to garden maintenance.

They often perform jobs like fixing leaky faucets, installing light fixtures, assembling furniture, repairing fences, painting interior or exterior walls, and handling routine maintenance chores.

A Handyman’s job also involves identifying more serious issues that require a specialist’s attention and notifying the property owner or manager.

They must have a good understanding of various tools and equipment, safety protocols, and problem-solving skills to tackle unexpected challenges that may arise during the repair or maintenance process.

The handyman’s ultimate responsibility is to keep the client’s property in good working condition, ensuring that all repairs and maintenance tasks are completed in a timely and efficient manner to the client’s satisfaction.

 

Essential Handyman Skills

• Physical Stamina: Handymen perform manual labor that often involves lifting heavy objects and working for extended periods. They should have good physical stamina to complete tasks efficiently and safely.
• Problem-solving: Similar to software engineers, handymen are problem solvers. They need to identify the issue at hand, analyze it, and find a creative and efficient solution.
• Repair Skills: A handyman should be proficient in a range of repair tasks, including plumbing, electrical systems, carpentry, painting, and more. Knowledge of how different systems and appliances work is important.
• Tool Proficiency: A good handyman must have a working knowledge of various tools, from basic hand tools like screwdrivers and hammers to more complex power tools such as drills and saws.
• Safety Practices: Understanding and adhering to safety practices is essential to prevent accidents or injuries on the job. This can range from knowing how to properly use tools to understanding potential hazards in a work environment.
• Communication: Good communication skills are vital for handymen as they need to discuss problems, solutions, and costs with clients. They should be able to explain complex issues in easy-to-understand language.
• Customer Service: Handymen frequently interact with clients, so they need to provide excellent customer service, including being punctual, respectful, and friendly.
• Time Management: Handymen often work on multiple jobs in a day. Therefore, they need to manage their time effectively to ensure all tasks are completed on time.
• Detail Oriented: Attention to detail is essential to ensure that jobs are completed thoroughly and correctly. This can range from noticing a small leak that could cause damage, to making sure a painting job is done smoothly.
• Construction and Building Basics: A general understanding of construction and building principles, like understanding blueprints or knowing how a structure is put together, is very beneficial for a handyman.
• Math Skills: Basic math skills are necessary for a handyman to calculate costs, measure materials, and ensure structures are level and correctly aligned.
• Creativity: Occasionally, a handyman may need to think creatively to solve a problem, especially if the right tools or parts are not immediately available.
• Reliability: Clients rely on handymen to fix problems in their homes or businesses. As such, handymen must be trustworthy and dependable.
• Troubleshooting: Much like a software engineer would troubleshoot code, a handyman needs to troubleshoot physical problems in a structure or piece of equipment. This involves identifying the problem, working out what is causing it, and deciding on the best solution.
• Project Management: Handymen often juggle multiple projects and clients at once. Understanding project management basics, including scheduling and planning, can ensure work is completed on time and clients are satisfied.

 

Handyman Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Apprentice Handyman

Your journey as a handyman begins at the apprentice level.

You start by learning the basic skills, assisting experienced handymen, and gaining practical exposure to various types of repair and maintenance work.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

1. Learn Continuously: Be eager to learn new techniques and familiarize yourself with a variety of tools and materials.
2. Develop Physical Stamina: Handyman jobs require good physical stamina and the ability to handle manual work.
3. Attention to Detail: Pay close attention to detail to perform precise and high-quality work.

 

The Ascent: Handyman

With the acquired skills and experience, you advance to the role of a Handyman.

At this stage, you start handling tasks independently, apply your learned skills, and interact more with clients.

Here’s how to thrive in this stage:

1. Problem Solving: Develop strong problem-solving skills to diagnose issues accurately and implement effective solutions.
2. Customer Service: Offer excellent customer service. Your reputation and success largely depend on the satisfaction of your clients.
3. Safety Practices: Always follow safety protocols to ensure your well-being and that of those around you.

 

Reaching New Heights: Senior Handyman

After several years of experience, you might rise to the level of a Senior Handyman.

In this role, you are recognized for your expertise and you handle more complex tasks.

You may also oversee other handymen and coordinate larger projects.

To excel as a Senior Handyman:

1. Mentorship: Share your knowledge and experience with less experienced handymen.
2. Project Management: Develop project management skills to effectively plan and execute larger projects.
3. Advanced Techniques: Continuously learn and apply advanced techniques to handle more complex tasks.

 

Beyond the Horizon: Handyman Contractor or Business Owner

If you have entrepreneurial aspirations, you may eventually start your own handyman business.

This role involves not only technical work but also managing a team, marketing your services, and handling administrative tasks.

Here’s what to focus on:

1. Business Skills: Learn about business operations, marketing strategies, and financial management.
2. Team Management: Develop strong leadership and team management skills to run your business successfully.
3. Regulations and Licensing: Stay updated with building codes, local regulations, and necessary licensing.

 

Pinnacle of Success: Expanding Your Business

At the peak of your career, you might focus on expanding your handyman business.

This could involve hiring more staff, branching out into specialized services, or even franchising your business.

Here, you’ll be responsible for strategic decision making and ensuring the overall success of your business.

 

Handyman Salary

Entry-Level Handyman

• Median Salary: $25,000 – $35,000 per year
• Entry-level handymen typically have 0-2 years of experience and may have completed vocational training or apprenticeships in relevant fields.

 

Mid-Level Handyman

• Median Salary: $35,000 – $45,000 per year
• Mid-level handymen have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more complex tasks, such as minor renovations or installations.

 

Senior Handyman

• Median Salary: $45,000 – $55,000 per year
• Senior handymen possess 5+ years of experience and are typically responsible for managing projects, overseeing other workers, and making decisions regarding job priorities.

 

Handyman Supervisor / Manager

• Median Salary: $55,000 – $65,000+ per year
• These roles come with significant experience and often involve project management, staff supervision, and decision-making regarding job assignments and timelines.

 

Handyman Business Owner / Contractor

• Median Salary: $65,000 – $100,000+ per year
• These high-level positions require extensive experience, and deep handyman skills. They involve running a handyman business, managing several handymen, bidding for jobs, and setting business strategies.

 

Handyman Work Environment

Handymen often work in a variety of settings including residential homes, commercial buildings, schools, hospitals, and even industrial sites.

They typically work independently, traveling to different locations on a daily basis to perform their tasks.

This often requires them to be on their feet for most of the day and they may have to work in tight spaces or at heights.

Handymen typically have a flexible schedule, which may include working evenings or weekends, depending on the needs of their clients.

After gaining sufficient experience and building a client base, a handyman may choose to start their own independent business.

This can provide even greater flexibility and control over the types of jobs they take on.

 

FAQs About Becoming a Handyman

What skills are needed to become a handyman?

To become a handyman, you should have a broad set of skills in home repair and maintenance.

This includes carpentry, plumbing, electrical systems, painting, and general troubleshooting.

You should be proficient with a variety of tools and understand basic safety protocols.

Additionally, customer service skills are important as you will be directly interacting with clients.

Problem-solving abilities, physical stamina, and attention to detail are also key traits of a successful handyman.

 

What type of education or training is necessary to become a handyman?

There is no formal education requirement to become a handyman, but some level of training is beneficial.

This can come from vocational schools, community colleges, or apprenticeships under experienced professionals.

Certain tasks such as electrical or plumbing work may require special licensing in some areas.

Continuing education is also important as new products and methods are constantly being introduced in this field.

 

Do I need a license to become a handyman?

The need for a license depends on the state or local regulations where you plan to work.

Some locations require handymen to obtain a license if they perform certain types of work or if the cost of a job exceeds a specific amount.

It’s best to check with your local municipality or state regulatory agency to understand the specific requirements.

 

Is being a handyman a physically demanding job?

Yes, being a handyman can be physically demanding as it often involves lifting heavy equipment, climbing ladders, bending, kneeling, and spending a lot of time on your feet.

However, the physical requirements can vary depending on the specific tasks you are performing.

 

What is the employment outlook for a handyman?

The employment outlook for handymen is generally positive.

As homes age, homeowners often need a variety of maintenance and repair services, which creates steady demand for handymen.

Additionally, many people lack the time or skills to perform these tasks themselves, further increasing the need for professional handymen.

However, the demand can fluctuate based on the economy and the season.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Beginning your journey to become a handyman may not be a walk in the park, but it’s unquestionably fulfilling.

Equipped with the right skills, practical knowledge, and unwavering commitment, you’re on the brink of making a substantial difference in the physical world.

Bear in mind, the path may be demanding, but the possibilities are boundless. Your expertise could lead to the next major breakthrough that revolutionizes the way we live, work, and function.

So, take that initial step. Immerse yourself in learning. Connect with industry professionals. And above all, never stop honing your craft.

Because the world is eager for the improvements you can bring.

And if you’re seeking personalized advice on how to kick-start or advance your career as a handyman, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is crafted to provide customized guidance and resources to assist you in effectively navigating your career path.

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