When Should You Hire a Handyman vs. a General Contractor in Sacramento and Surrounding Areas?
- gbgconstructioninc
- Aug 21
- 3 min read

If you own a home or business in Sacramento, Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Rocklin, Roseville, Antelope, or nearby communities, chances are you’ll eventually need help with repairs, improvements, or remodeling. But here’s the big question:
👉 Should you hire a handyman or a general contractor?
Knowing the difference can save you money, time, and stress — and ensure your project is done right.
What a Handyman Can Help With in Sacramento
A handyman is the go-to professional for small to medium jobs around the house. They’re perfect when you need quick, affordable fixes or improvements that don’t require permits or large crews.
Examples of handyman services:
Fixing leaky faucets or toilets
Patching drywall or repainting a room
Installing ceiling fans, light fixtures, or appliances
Small carpentry jobs like building shelves or repairing fences
Minor flooring repairs or tile work
Door and window repairs
In short: if it’s a smaller project (usually under $500–$1,000) and doesn’t require major structural changes, a handyman is usually your best choice.
When You Need a General Contractor in Sacramento
A general contractor is licensed, insured, and experienced in managing large-scale projects that require permits, inspections, or multiple trades (plumbing, electrical, framing, roofing, etc.).
Examples of when to hire a general contractor:
Full kitchen or bathroom remodels
Converting a garage into a living space
Structural repairs (foundation, framing, roofing)
Commercial build-outs and tenant improvements
Projects requiring permits from Sacramento County or city governments
In short: if the project is complex, involves multiple trades, or needs permits, you should hire a licensed general contractor like GBG Construction Inc.
Handyman vs. General Contractor in Sacramento – Quick Comparison
Project Type | Hire a Handyman | Hire a General Contractor |
Fixing leaks, patching drywall | ✅ | ❌ |
Painting one or two rooms | ✅ | ❌ |
Installing light fixtures | ✅ | ❌ |
Kitchen remodel | ❌ | ✅ |
Bathroom remodel | ❌ | ✅ |
Garage conversion / ADU | ❌ | ✅ |
Structural or foundation repair | ❌ | ✅ |
Large commercial project | ❌ | ✅ |
How to Choose the Right Professional in Sacramento & Nearby Areas
Budget: Smaller jobs → handyman; bigger investments → contractor.
Timeline: Handymen are usually faster for small tasks, contractors manage longer projects.
Permits: If your job needs permits or inspections, hire a general contractor.
Peace of mind: General contractors handle everything from planning to permits to inspections.
GBG Construction Inc. – Serving Sacramento & Surrounding Areas
At GBG Construction Inc., we provide both handyman services and licensed general contracting, so you don’t have to worry about choosing the wrong professional.
We proudly serve homeowners and businesses in:Sacramento, Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Rocklin, Roseville, Antelope, Citrus Heights, and more.
✅ Small repairs? We’ll take care of it.✅ Major remodels or ADUs? We’ve got the license, crew, and experience to deliver.
Why Local Residents Trust Us
Final Thoughts
When deciding between a handyman and a general contractor in Sacramento, remember this rule of thumb:
Small, quick, under-$1,000 jobs → handyman
Big, structural, or permit-required projects → general contractor
And if you’re still unsure? Just call GBG Construction Inc. — we’ll guide you in the right direction and make sure you get the best solution for your project.


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