VS
An Honest Comparison
When a renovation actually needs a licensed contractor — and when a handyman is genuinely the right call.
Rocky Point Projects
Rocky Point Projects is a licensed, bonded, and insured renovation contractor led by a Red Seal certified carpenter. We pull permits, carry WCB coverage, and stand behind structural, plumbing, and electrical work with the certifications and insurance to back it.
a Handyman
A handyman is a generalist who handles small repairs, basic maintenance, and minor improvements, typically at a lower hourly rate. Handymen are great for punch-list tasks. In British Columbia, handymen are generally not licensed to perform work that requires a trade ticket or a building permit.
A general handyman offering small repairs and basic renovation work at lower hourly rates.
Side by Side
| What Matters | Rocky Point Projects | a Handyman |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed & bonded | ||
| Red Seal trade certification | ||
| Pulls building permits | ||
| WCB / liability insurance | ||
| Structural, plumbing, electrical scope | ||
| Hourly rate | Higher (licensed trade) | Lower |
| Warranty on work | Written workmanship warranty | Varies, often informal |
| Best fit | Permitted renovations & structural work | Small repairs & punch-list tasks |
Where We Differ
Renovations that move walls, alter plumbing, or change electrical require permits and inspections. A handyman generally can't pull those permits. Work done without them can fail inspection, void insurance, and surface as a problem when you sell your home.
Red Seal certification is a nationally recognized trade standard. It means the person building your project has demonstrated competency in their trade — not just that they're willing to do the work. For structural, waterproofing, and finish work, that difference shows up in the result.
Licensed contractors carry liability insurance and WCB coverage. If something goes wrong on a permitted renovation done by an uninsured handyman, you — the homeowner — can be on the hook for property damage or injury. The lower hourly rate can cost more than it saves.
Not every job needs a contractor. Replacing a door, fixing trim, or hanging shelves are handyman-appropriate tasks. We'll honestly tell you when your project is small enough that a handyman is the right call — and when it isn't.
The Bottom Line
A good handyman is the right choice for small repairs and maintenance. For anything involving permits, structure, plumbing, electrical, or a renovation you expect to last 20+ years, a licensed Red Seal contractor is the appropriate investment. The lower hourly rate of a handyman doesn't include the licensing, insurance, and accountability that protect your home.
Talk to a Red Seal Contractor
No pressure, no sales pitch. A 30-minute consultation to understand your scope and whether we can deliver it well.