Trades & Construction

How to Start a Handyman Business

To start a handyman business you need basic tools, a vehicle, general liability insurance, a state handyman license (if required), and a local marketing strategy. Most handymen launch in 1–2 months with $2,000–$10,000.

Startup cost: $2,000 – $10,000 Timeline: 1–2 months 8 steps

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Check your state license requirements

Some states require a handyman license for jobs over a certain dollar amount (often $500–$1,000); verify your state’s rules before advertising services.

2

Register your business

Form an LLC or operate as a sole proprietor; obtain a business license and an EIN for tax and banking purposes.

3

Purchase insurance

Buy general liability insurance ($500–$1,500/year for $1M coverage) to protect against property damage claims; it also builds customer trust.

4

Equip your vehicle with tools

Assemble a comprehensive tool kit covering carpentry, plumbing, electrical, drywall, and painting tasks; a truck or van is essential for transporting materials.

5

Define your service offerings

Focus on common repairs — drywall patching, fixture installation, door and trim work, minor plumbing and electrical, painting, and furniture assembly.

6

Set your pricing

Charge hourly ($50–$100/hour) or flat-rate per job; price for profitability after factoring vehicle, insurance, and tool replacement costs.

7

Build your customer pipeline

List on TaskRabbit, Thumbtack, and Angi; build a Google Business profile; ask for reviews; and leverage word-of-mouth in your local neighborhood.

8

Track jobs and collect reviews

Use a simple CRM or scheduling app (Jobber, Housecall Pro); request reviews after every job to build your online reputation and referral pipeline.

Find vetted providers for your handyman business

BizResCo connects you with verified professionals for every step of starting and growing your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Startup costs range from $2,000 for an operator with existing tools to $10,000+ for a vehicle, comprehensive tools, insurance, and initial marketing.

Get your personalized Handyman Business roadmap — free

Our AI assesses your business and generates a custom 90-day action plan with tasks, provider matches, and growth insights.

Start my free assessment