Ask House Spouse · Interior Repairs · Paint & Trim
What's the difference between a handyman and a general contractor?
Short answer
A handyman is typically an unlicensed individual for small repairs, whereas a Washington general contractor is licensed, insured, and bonded to manage larger projects and multiple trades. My House Spouse is a licensed general contractor that offers a professional, reliable handyman service for bundled small jobs, ensuring everything is done to code.
The "Handyman" in Washington State
In Washington, the term 'handyman' has no legal definition. Often, it refers to an individual performing small repairs. While many are skilled, the state has a 'handyman exemption' that allows work on a single project only if the total cost, including labor and materials, is under $500, and the person does not advertise for work. Anyone advertising services or taking on projects over this amount must be a registered contractor. Hiring an unregistered person exposes you to significant financial and legal risks if the work is poor or if they are injured on your property.
The Role of a Licensed General Contractor (GC)
A General Contractor is a business licensed by the state to contract for construction work. To become a GC in Washington, like My House Spouse (license MYHOUHS745L5), a business must pass an exam, carry a surety bond, and maintain general liability insurance. A GC is qualified to manage projects, pull permits, and coordinate specialized, licensed subcontractors like plumbers and electricians. This structure provides a crucial layer of protection, accountability, and quality control for the homeowner.
Why Hire a Licensed GC for "Handyman" Jobs?
My House Spouse bridges the gap. We are a licensed General Contractor that specializes in the small to medium-sized projects that larger GCs often won't take. When you hire us for a handyman visit, you get the convenience of a long to-do list done, but with the full backing of a licensed, insured, and bonded company. We self-perform drywall repair, painting, fixture swaps, and deck repairs. For tasks requiring a specialty license, we coordinate a trusted, licensed partner and manage the entire process for you, as detailed on our /disclaimers page.
Why it happens
The term 'handyman' is unregulated in Washington State, leading to a wide range of skill levels and professionalism. Many are uninsured individuals working on small, cash-based repairs, which creates risk for homeowners. In contrast, a General Contractor (GC) is a licensed, bonded, and insured business entity registered with the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). GCs are legally responsible for code compliance, safety, and managing subcontractors, offering a higher level of protection and accountability. The confusion arises because a licensed GC can offer handyman-style services, but an unlicensed handyman cannot legally perform the work of a GC.
How to diagnose it
- 1Ask for their WA State Contractor License number. It should start with the first 6 letters of their business name and end in 3 characters.
- 2Verify the license number on the Washington L&I 'Verify a Contractor' tool online. Check that their status is 'Active' and that their insurance and bond are current.
- 3Look for a business address and a professional website. A lack of online presence or reliance on a generic email address can be a red flag.
- 4Ask if they carry General Liability insurance and can provide a certificate of insurance. Uninsured workers may leave you liable for accidents on your property.
- 5Request a written scope of work and contract, even for small jobs. Professionals document everything.
DIY vs. professional
DIY-friendly if…
DIY is suitable for minor cosmetic tasks like spackling a nail hole, touching up paint, or tightening a loose doorknob where no license is required.
Call a pro when…
Hire a licensed and insured professional like a general contractor for any bundled repairs, work involving drywall or trim, fixture swaps, or anything requiring a ladder to ensure safety and proper execution.
Cost expectations
$580–$1,155typical WA labor + materials
Our minimum half-day visit is $580 for up to 4 hours of labor. A full 8-hour day costs $1155. Materials are extra, and a $99 trip charge applies for non-members.
Every House Spouse job is quoted in writing before we start. 12-month workmanship warranty included.
What we see on Home Health Assessments
A Home Health Assessment helps identify and prioritize dozens of small repairs, allowing us to bundle them into a single, efficient handyman visit with a licensed and insured professional.
How the Home Health Assessment worksServices we'd bring to this job
Where we handle this
We answer this question on real Home Health Assessments across Snohomish and King County.