What is the difference between a contractor and a handyman?

In Ottawa, the key difference between contractors and handymen comes down to licensing, insurance, permits, and the scope of work they can legally perform.

Licensed Contractors vs. Handymen

Licensed contractors in Ontario must carry WSIB coverage, liability insurance, and hold specific trade licenses for electrical (ESA), gas (TSSA), or other regulated work. They can pull building permits directly with the City of Ottawa, take on major renovations, and are legally responsible for code compliance. When you hire a licensed contractor, you're protected under Ontario's Construction Lien Act and consumer protection laws.

Handymen typically handle smaller repairs and maintenance tasks that don't require permits - things like painting, minor carpentry, fixture installation, or general repairs. They may not carry WSIB or extensive insurance, and cannot pull permits for electrical, plumbing, or structural work in Ottawa.

What Each Can Do in Ottawa

Licensed contractors can handle major projects requiring City of Ottawa permits: bathroom renovations, kitchen remodels, additions, basement finishing, electrical panel upgrades, and gas line work. They must follow Ontario Building Code requirements and coordinate ESA electrical inspections or TSSA gas inspections.

Handymen are perfect for tasks like fixing squeaky doors, painting rooms, installing shelving, caulking, minor drywall repairs, or replacing non-electrical fixtures. However, they cannot legally do electrical work requiring ESA permits, gas work requiring TSSA certification, or structural changes requiring City of Ottawa building permits.

Verification Requirements

For contractors in Ottawa, always verify their WSIB clearance certificate, liability insurance, and trade-specific licenses through ESA (esasafe.com) for electrical or TSSA (tssa.org) for gas work. Call 613-580-2424 to confirm they can pull permits with City of Ottawa Building Code Services.

Handymen may not have these credentials, which is fine for minor work, but means you take on more liability risk. Always ask about their insurance coverage even for smaller jobs.

Cost and Complexity Considerations

Contractors typically charge more due to their overhead costs (insurance, licensing, permits), but provide warranties and legal protections. For projects over $5,000 or anything requiring permits, a licensed contractor is usually your best bet in Ottawa.

Handymen offer more affordable rates for simple tasks but can't handle complex work. If your "simple" repair turns into something requiring a permit - like discovering electrical issues during a fixture installation - a handyman must stop and refer you to a licensed contractor.

The bottom line: match the professional to your project's complexity and legal requirements in Ottawa. When in doubt, contact City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 to confirm whether your project needs permits and licensed trades.