Should I use a handyman or a contractor?

[Ken T.]

Hello BP, it's been quite some time since I have posted. I finally have a project I'm working on! 

I have a project in San Francisco CA but the general contractors charge so much. I have a few questions as a first time rehabber... 

About the project: It is a SF property that is permitted for a full renovation of the existing living space and a garage/basement conversion. I will have a GC take care of the "major" things (I don't really know what is considered major).

I looked all over the internet but cannot get a good grasp on my questions. My questions are...

1) What can a handyman do instead of a licensed contractor?

2) Can a handyman do projects that require building permits?

3) Anything else I should know about using a handyman?

Thank you in advance!

[Max Gradowitz]

1) Handymen typically do minor work. Replacing door knobs, shower doors, faucet knobs, garbage disposals, etc.  They are great for landlords because minor stuff goes out all the time on renal properties.

2) For anything requiring permits you want a licensed contractor.  They will know how to pull permits, that's why they are a reputable licensed contractor.  DO NOT use a handyman to do unpermitted work that requires a permit.

3) Use them for minor stuff.  Contractors for major stuff, permits required or not.  Pretty simple.  Without more details, it sounds like you will want a contractor for your project.