How Do I Price My Handyman Contractor Services?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Sep 19
- 3 min read
Starting a handyman contractor business is exciting—but pricing your services correctly is one of the most important steps to ensure long-term success. Whether you're offering plumbing, painting, carpentry, or remodeling services, setting competitive yet profitable rates can make or break your business.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to price your handyman services strategically, while also protecting your business with the right insurance coverage.
Pricing isn’t just about covering costs—it’s about positioning your business in the market. Charge too little, and you risk burnout and low profits. Charge too much, and you may lose out to competitors. The goal is to find a balance that reflects your value, covers your expenses, and supports growth.
Step-by-Step Guide to Pricing Your Handyman Services
1. Understand Your Costs
Before setting prices, calculate your fixed and variable costs:
Labor: Your hourly wage or subcontractor rates.
Materials: Supplies needed for each job.
Overhead: Fuel, tools, marketing, insurance, and office expenses.
💡 Tip: Include a buffer for unexpected costs or delays.
2. Research Local Market Rates
Check what other handyman contractors in your area are charging. Use platforms like:
HomeAdvisor
Angi
This helps you stay competitive while understanding what clients are willing to pay.
3. Choose a Pricing Model
Handyman contractors typically use one of these models:
Hourly Rate: Common for small jobs or ongoing maintenance.
Flat Rate: Ideal for well-defined projects like installing a door or painting a room.
Project-Based Pricing: Best for larger jobs like bathroom or kitchen remodeling.
4. Factor in Profit Margin
Don’t just break even—build in a profit margin (typically 10–30%) to grow your business and reinvest in tools, marketing, and staff.
Sample Pricing Breakdown
Service Type | Average Hourly Rate | Flat Rate Example |
Plumbing Repairs | $75–$125/hr | $300 for faucet install |
Painting | $50–$100/hr | $500 for a single room |
Carpentry | $60–$110/hr | $800 for custom shelving |
Floor Installation | $70–$120/hr | $1,200 for 200 sq ft |
Rates vary by region and complexity. Always adjust based on your costs and market.
Don’t Forget Insurance Costs
As you price your services, make sure to include the cost of handyman contractor insurance. At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping handyman businesses get the coverage they need to operate safely and legally.
Essential Insurance Policies for Handyman Contractors:
General Liability Insurance: Protects against property damage or injury claims.
Commercial Auto Insurance: Covers vehicles used for business.
Commercial Property Insurance: Protects your tools, equipment, and office space.
Workers Compensation: Required if you have employees.
Equipment Insurance: Covers theft or damage to your tools.
Pricing Tips for New Handyman Businesses
Start with competitive rates, then adjust as you build your reputation.
Offer package deals for common services (e.g., “Weekend Home Repair Bundle”).
Track your time and expenses to refine your pricing over time.
Be transparent with clients—provide detailed estimates and explain your value.
Final Thoughts
Pricing your handyman contractor services is both an art and a science. By understanding your costs, researching your market, and factoring in insurance, you’ll be well-positioned to run a profitable and protected business.
At Wexford Insurance, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you're just starting out or scaling your handyman business, we’ll help you find the right insurance coverage tailored to your services.
📞 Ready to protect your handyman business?
Contact Wexford Insurance today for a free consultation.
