Home repairs often pile up fast — from fixing a leaking pipe, replacing faulty light fixtures, and retiling a bathroom floor, to removing old appliances or painting your living room. Many homeowners assume it’s cheaper and easier to hire a handyman to settle everything at once instead of calling multiple specialists like plumbers, electricians, or painters.

But the truth is: not every job should be handled by a handyman. Depending on the complexity of the problem, you may actually need a professional Plumber Singapore, a licensed electrician, or another specialist.

Below, we break down when a handyman is useful, when you should call a licensed Plumber, and how to choose the right person for the job.

Handyman vs Specialist: Which One Do You Need?

A handyman can handle smaller, simple home repair tasks that do not require technical certifications. However, larger or high-risk projects — especially those involving Plumbing services, electrical systems, or major structural work — should always be handled by trained specialists.

You Should Hire a Licensed Plumber Singapore If the Job Involves:

• Serious pipe leaks or repeated water pressure problems

• Choked or damaged drainage systems

• Installation or replacement of water heaters

• Toilet bowl replacements

• Any job requiring PUB-licensed Plumbing services in Singapore

• Underground or concealed pipe repairs

• Gas pipe or water pipe works that need certification

These tasks need expertise, proper tools, and compliance with Singapore regulations. A handyman is not permitted to perform many of these high-risk plumbing works.

When Is a Handyman the Right Choice?

A handyman is ideal for small, non-technical jobs that can be completed with basic tools. They don’t require specialized licenses for tasks such as:

• Minor plumbing fixes, like replacing taps or unclogging basic sinks

• Touch-up painting

• Caulking bathrooms and kitchens

• Fixing door handles or hinges

• Installing blinds, shelves, or curtain rods

• Minor home exterior repairs

• Gutter cleaning and maintenance

• Small carpentry work

• Installing simple light fixtures or hanging décor

Because handymen usually charge hourly rates, they can be cost-effective for quick, simple tasks.

Top Tips for Hiring a Handyman in Singapore

1. Make a Clear List of What You Need Done

Before calling anyone, list all the repairs required. This helps you determine if they are handyman-sized jobs or if you need specialized plumbing services or electrician expertise.

2. Get Recommendations and Check Local Listings

Ask your neighbors, friends, or family for trusted handyman contacts. You can also search online directories or local service platforms.
Remember: Handyman services in Singapore may not be licensed, so choose carefully.

3. Avoid Handymen Who Ask for Large Upfront Payments

A reliable handyman does not demand full payment before work starts. They should provide a clear quote and stand by it.

4. Agree on Pricing Before Work Begins

Handymen may charge:

• Hourly

• By project

• By job complexity

Clarify:

• Total estimated cost

• Breakdown of charges

• Whether materials are included or separate

5. Confirm Project Timeline

Ask for:

• Estimated start date

• Expected completion time

A professional handyman will stick to the agreed schedule and will not delay your job for other projects.

6. Get Everything in Writing

A simple written agreement should include:

• Final cost

• Payment schedule

• Job details

• Timeline

• Guarantees (if any)

This protects both parties.

7. Inspect the Work Before Making Full Payment

Check all tasks carefully to ensure the work meets your expectations and matches what was agreed upon.
A reputable handyman values customer satisfaction and won’t leave until you are fully satisfied.

Final Thoughts

A handyman is a great choice for small, non-technical home improvements. However, for complex or plumbing-related work, always engage a trusted Plumber Singapore like Kiasu Plumber SG, where you get licensed professionals who deliver safe, reliable, and long-lasting solutions.