Plumber or Handyman?
Hiring a plumber or a handyman to service your home is a decision based on needs really. So we wanted to talk without about the big difference between the two different services. On researching this topic though, we found another article that just summed up the topic so wonderfully, it seemed silly to try and do it over. So the following article comes from Approved Plumbing out of Broadview Heights, Ohio. To read the article in its entirety on their website please click here.
Should You Call a Professional Contractor or Handyman?
Keeping a residence or commercial business in good condition is a tough job. Water pipes may leak, toilets can overflow and the electricity can go out in the blink of an eye. Property owners must also pay close attention to how the outside looks, as to not violate any city code violations. A handyman or professional contractor may be consulted for these issues – but there are major differences in the qualifications and duties of each profession.
In simplistic terms, a handyman is someone who works with their hands. A handyman is hired to execute repairs and keep the home or business in good condition. Repairing windows, cleaning gutters and mowing lawns are all duties of a handyman. These services are valuable, but there may be some disadvantages. There is no license required to be a handyman. Many services offered by a handyman include common tasks that the property owners can do themselves, and often is just a matter of finding the time or motivation to do it.
On the other hand, a plumber’s training is more extensive and requires a formal education. Most qualified plumbers go through a four year apprenticeship and theory program to learn specific state and municipal plumbing codes. The profession typically requires in-field training for up to eight or nine years. Plumbers are also required to pass a state issued examination in order to work on their own. Codes are constantly changing so continuing education is required for all licensed plumbing contractors.
Plumbers are responsible for the installation and upkeep of a variety of fixtures. They monitor and adjust water temperature and gas pressure inside a home or business. They make sure drains and pipes are the proper size based on local codes. Plumbers also make sure grab bars and sinks are installed at the correct height. Essentially, their job is to protect the health and safety of their customers.
Calling a plumber is ideal for all circumstances, such as that annoying leaky faucet or broken pipehidden behind a wall. Plumbers have special tools that only a licensed professional should work with. Gas line equipment in particular requires very specific knowledge and training that’s best left to a professional. When un-licensed contractors use this equipment, they put everyone’s safety at risk. Many home and business owners contact plumbers because they know that the job will be done in a professional manner and in accordance with all safety and plumbing codes.
Obviously there are several differences between a plumber and handyman. A handyman’s services are appropriate for general maintenance of a home or building and a plumber deals with “the inner workings” of a home or business based on specific codes and safety regulations. It is in the consumer’s best interest to ensure that a plumber is properly licensed.
Knowing the advantages and pitfalls of each profession can be very beneficial. The reality is that a small issue can yield a larger one if not dealt with appropriately. Choosing between a handyman or a professional contactor to make your repair can be critical to a successful outcome and your safety.
Dennis. Should You Call a Professional Contractor or a Handyman? Weblog. 6 Jul. 2011. Web. 6 Aug. 2013. Available at http://www.approvedplumbing.com/call-professional-contractor-handyman/.
This is why a professional plumbing company can not compete with the standard rates of a handyman. The licensing, insurance, education, and equipment all have related fees. It’s just like taking your car to the shop. You’ll pay a little more to have your vehicle serviced at the dealership, but there you know the mechanic is certified to work on that particular vehicle, and will back up that work with a warranty. Taking that same car to any uncertified shop runs the risk of having the work done improperly, or even causing more damage.
A special thanks on behalf of Approved Plumbing for the excellent article.
The Proof is in the Plumbing!
