To hire a builder or a handy man

Last year, tens of thousands of Australians used Oneflare.com.au, which lists trades and service professionals, to request the help of handymen and builders.

Builders and handymen do different things and come with different skills and qualifications. So whether you need repairs or a home renovation, here’s what you need to know.

As a professional that requires a high level of education, experience and training, builders are who you hire when looking to do a major renovation or when needing to build extensions.

They should also have the knowledge when it comes to requirements, applications and permits that are needed to carry out the work.

Tony Hickson, based in Western Sydney, lists his business Access Building and Renovations on Oneflare and said that it comes down to experience, skills and qualifications.

“Builders provide a one-stop-shop and have the qualifications to supervise other professions, such as plumbing, electrical, plastering, tiling and more, whereas a handyman can only do the smaller jobs,” Mr Hickson said.

For those looking to hire builders, consider checking if they’re licensed, qualified and have credentials. They should also have the appropriate insurances in place in case of loss or damages.

For those odd jobs needed around the home which you might not feel confident tackling yourself, such as repairs, installation, maintenance or assembly, a handyman can help.

Whilst different handymen will have different sets of skills, it’s worth finding out whether the handyman you’ve hired is licensed in certain areas, particularly if you’re undertaking specialised work which may legally require a licensed professional.