What is the difference between a contractor and a handyman?

In Ottawa, the key difference is licensing and scope of work - contractors are licensed for specific trades and can pull permits, while handymen typically handle smaller repairs and maintenance that don't require permits.

Licensed Contractors vs. Handymen in Ottawa

Licensed Contractors must be registered with their respective regulatory bodies in Ontario. For electrical work, they need an ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) license that you can verify at esasafe.com/contractor-locator. For gas work, they need TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority) certification searchable at tssa.org. General contractors doing structural work must be familiar with Ontario Building Code requirements and can pull building permits through the City of Ottawa's building department (613-580-2424).

Licensed contractors carry WSIB coverage (verifiable at wsib.ca/clearances) and proper liability insurance. They can legally pull permits for work that requires them - like electrical upgrades, plumbing rough-ins, structural changes, or HVAC installations. In Ottawa, any work requiring a building permit (typically costing $200-2000+ depending on scope) must be done by appropriately licensed trades.

Handymen in Ottawa typically handle smaller jobs that don't require permits - things like painting, minor drywall repairs, fixture installations, caulking, or basic carpentry. They're not licensed for specific trades and cannot pull permits. However, many experienced handymen are skilled and insured, making them perfect for maintenance and minor repairs.

What to Watch For in Ottawa

The biggest red flag is a handyman offering to do permit-required work "under the table" to save money. In Ottawa, unpermitted electrical, plumbing, or structural work can cause serious problems when you sell your home or file an insurance claim. The City of Ottawa Building Code Services requires permits for most renovations beyond cosmetic changes.

Always verify licensing through official channels. For electrical work, check the ESA contractor locator. For gas work, verify TSSA certification. For general contracting, ask to see their WSIB clearance certificate and liability insurance.

Making the Right Choice

For projects under $1,000 involving basic repairs and maintenance, a reputable handyman often makes sense. For anything requiring permits, structural changes, or specialized trade work, you need properly licensed contractors who can work within Ottawa's regulatory framework.

When getting quotes, licensed contractors should mention permit requirements and include permit costs in their estimates. If someone says "you don't need a permit for that" when you suspect you do, call City of Ottawa Building Services at 613-580-2424 to verify.

The investment in properly licensed contractors protects your home's value and ensures work meets Ontario Building Code standards - crucial considerations for Ottawa homeowners.