Need a handyman in Brooklyn? Here's how to hire the right one
A good handyman can knock out a list of small jobs in one visit. But NYC has rules about who can do what, and knowing them protects you and your home.
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Emergency? Gas smell, CO alarm, fire, sparking or flooding: get to safety and call 911 first.
Typical handyman jobs
- Mounting TVs, shelves, mirrors and curtain rods (in plaster, brick or drywall).
- Patching and painting small wall damage.
- Fixing doors that stick, cabinet hinges, drawer slides and loose railings.
- Assembling furniture, installing blinds, childproofing.
- Caulking tubs and sinks, swapping toilet seats, replacing weatherstripping.
What needs a licensed trade in NYC
- Plumbing and gas work: must be done by or under a DOB Licensed Master Plumber.
- Electrical work (outlets, switches, fixtures, circuits): must be done by a DOB Licensed Master Electrician.
- Home improvement jobs over $200 (repairs, remodeling or renovations to a home): the business needs a NYC DCWP Home Improvement Contractor license, and you should get a written contract.
A handyman who offers to rewire a light or move a gas line "off the books" isn't saving you money if something goes wrong.
Brooklyn specifics
Brownstone and pre-war walls are often plaster over lath or solid brick, which takes the right anchors and drill bits. Heavy TV mounts need to hit studs or masonry. Walk-ups mean pros will ask about stairs and parking. Co-ops and condos usually need a certificate of insurance (COI) from the contractor before they're allowed in.
Protect yourself
Get a written contract for anything over $200 that lists the work, materials, start and end dates and payment schedule. Avoid paying most of the job up front. Confirm the license yourself on the DCWP license lookup, and keep receipts and photos.
Get a better quote
- List every job with photos and measurements.
- Mention wall type if you know it (plaster, brick, drywall).
- Say whether you're supplying materials.
- Ask whether it's priced by the job or by the hour, and get it in writing.
Rates vary by job and by business, so compare the written quote, not a guess.
Questions
Does a Brooklyn handyman need a license?
For home improvement work over $200, NYC requires a DCWP Home Improvement Contractor license. Plumbing and electrical work need DOB-licensed trades. We check licenses before we match.
Can I combine a few small jobs in one visit?
Yes, and it's usually the most efficient way to hire a handyman. Describe the full list in your request.
Will the handyman send my building a COI?
Pros in our network keep insurance on file, so they can usually send your building's managing agent a COI on request.
Related guides
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Owners, co-op/condo owners and landlords: tell us the job and we'll introduce you to one vetted, licensed local business, usually within 24 hours. Free for you. Pros pay Five Boro Fix a referral fee. Matching service, not a contractor.