Hiring a handyman is a great way to get some help checking off your home improvement to-do list. Handymen can perform many small to large tasks that you are either unable to do or are too busy to complete. If you’re thinking about hiring a handyman, be sure to check out these hiring tips and read on to learn about the costs involved.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Handyman?
The cost of hiring a handyman depends on several factors. Mainly the size of your project and how experienced the handyman is will impact your cost. Keep in mind that the cost is ultimately up to the handyman to decide. Depending on what the job is, they may charge an hourly rate or a flat rate.
It’s important to know that if your job is exceeding $500 a day, for more than two days, it may be best to hire a contractor who specializes in that trade instead of a handyman.
Below are the average costs of Handyman Services across different cities in Canada:
| City | Average | Minimum | Maximum |
| Barrie | $4,459 | $100 | $15,000 |
| Calgary | $5,626 | $100 | $45,000 |
| Edmonton | $2,609 | $100 | $45,000 |
| Hamilton | $4,825 | $120 | $30,000 |
| Oshawa | $2,837 | $100 | $30,000 |
| Ottawa | $3,372 | $100 | $50,000 |
| Toronto | $2,820 | $100 | $50,000 |
| Vancouver | $1,683 | $100 | $30,000 |
*Costs based on 2718 verified Canadian homeowner reviews as of March 2022
Hourly Rate
The average rate of a handyman who works independently by the hour is $60-$80. This price may vary depending on where you live, as travel charges might be applied. Handymen who are part of a larger company may charge up to $100 an hour, due to being held to higher standards by their respective company. It’s important to note that within their hourly rate, they may have a flat rate hourly minimum. The reason for this is to make completing your job worthwhile for their business.
Hourly rates are commonly used for smaller to medium sized jobs, involving straightforward work.
Flat Rate
Handymen may charge a flat rate for very common projects. Since they have performed these tasks over and over again, they know how long they take and how much labour is required, allowing them to set a flat price.
Smaller projects are more common for handymen to complete, but they also can complete larger tasks. These tasks can include more skilled projects, such as installing plumbing fixtures or even renovating an entire space. It is common for handymen to charge a flat rate for these as they are able to estimate the costs of materials and labour hours.
If you do decide to hire a handyman, be sure to discuss the scope of work prior to beginning. All handymen use a different form of pricing, be sure to connect and understand your payment plan before hiring. An experienced handyman will be able to quote your job with an estimation of costs and a timeline.
Handyman Job Sizes
Small Jobs
Small jobs can include, but are not limited to, furniture assembly, minor paint touch ups and simple plumbing jobs, such as repairing a leaky faucet. These jobs will take the handyman an average of 1-2 hours to complete and only require simple tools. You can expect to pay an average of $100-$200 for these small tasks.
Medium Jobs
Medium jobs require a little more time (2-4 hours) and effort than the smaller jobs, and possibly more expertise. An example of a medium sized job is drywall repair or hanging shelves. Expect to pay around $200-$400 for these jobs.
Large Jobs
Larger jobs require more time and skill. These jobs can take anywhere from half a day up to a couple days to complete. These jobs can include wiring, installing heating or cooling systems, and installing smaller plumbing fixtures, such as a sink. Expect to pay an average of $400 and up for these jobs.
When looking to hire a handyman, it’s important you get multiple quotes. This way you can find the best price for your project and find a handyman that you feel comfortable working with. Ask about having them complete multiple projects at once for a better deal.
Hiring a handyman is great for completing tasks that you don’t have the tools, skill, or time to complete. Don’t waste your time and money trying to complete a project beyond your skill level. Instead hire a handyman and know your project will be completed the right way. You’ll be glad you made the investment.
Check out HomeStars’ Guide to Handyman Costs & Estimates in Canada for more information.
Article Updated June 2022
