Handyman work is a stream of small jobs — and small jobs are where profit quietly disappears: driving across town for a 30-minute fix, extra store runs, "while you're here, could you also…". Good pricing protects you without scaring customers away.
1. Set a minimum charge
Every visit costs you travel, loading, set-up and clean-up before you touch the job. A minimum charge (often the first hour, or a call-out fee) makes sure even the smallest job covers that. State it clearly when booking.
2. Half-day and day rates for task lists
Customers love bundling a list of jobs. Price a half-day or full day visit and list every task included — it's easier to sell, keeps you busy in one place and gives you a predictable day's pay.
| Item | Qty | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half-day visit (up to 4 hours on site) | 1 visit | $340.00 | $340.00 |
| Mount 65" TV & hide cables in wall | 1 each | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Replace 2 interior door handles | 1 job | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Patch & paint 3 small drywall holes | 1 job | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Hang curtain rods (3 windows) | 1 job | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Materials (anchors, patch, paint, cable kit) | 1 lot | $65.00 | $65.00 |
| Subtotal | $405.00 | ||
| Tax (13% — use your own local rate) | $52.65 | ||
| Total | $457.65 | ||
Tasks listed at $0 are included in the half-day price — listing them shows the client exactly what they get.
Example numbers only — prices vary a lot by area, season and job. Use your own costs.
Agree the list in writing. If the client adds tasks, they go on the list only if there's time — otherwise they're quoted as an extra or the next visit.
3. Materials and store runs
Ask for details and photos before you go, so you arrive with the right parts. Charge materials at cost plus a fair handling margin, and if you need to stop at the store, either include it in your time or charge a pick-up fee — but say so in advance.
4. Know your limits
Many places require licensed trades for electrical, gas and some plumbing work, and permits for structural changes. Turn those jobs down or refer them — it protects your customers and your insurance. Build a short list of licensed trades you trust; referrals go both ways.
5. Getting repeat local customers
- Seniors and busy families often have a running list of small jobs — become their go-to person.
- Realtors and property managers need fast, tidy fixes before listings and between tenants.
- Seasonal offers — gutter cleaning, weather-stripping, holiday lights — fill quiet weeks.
- Leave a card or sticker and send a thank-you message after each visit.
- Genie. Take on-demand handyman jobs nearby with the price agreed first, and send itemized quotes for bigger lists.
6. Handyman job checklist
- ✅ Minimum charge stated when booking
- ✅ Task list and photos received in advance
- ✅ Half-day or day price agreed in writing
- ✅ Materials list ready before you leave
- ✅ Licensed-trade work referred out
- ✅ Extra tasks quoted separately
- ✅ Before/after photos taken
- ✅ Invoice sent the same day