Handyman vs. Licensed Plumber: Who Should You Call?

We’ve seen it a bunch: folks askin’ for a handyman when a plumbing issue pops up. Totally fair - sometimes ya just want a quick fix and move on. And truth is, there’s plenty a good handyman can do when it comes to minor plumbing stuff.

But here’s the thing - there’s a line. And crossin’ that line (even if you’re tryin’ to save a few bucks) can land you in hot water - literally.

So, we put together this little guide to help you know when a handyman’s good enough, and when it’s time to call in a licensed plumber.

1. Leaky Faucet

Who to call: Handyman (for simple stuff) → Plumber (if it keeps leakin’). A handyman can tighten things up or swap out a washer. But if it keeps on dripping, it could be something deeper in the lines.

2. Clogged Toilet

Who to call: Handyman (first shot) → Plumber (if it’s always actin’ up) One-off clogs? No problem. Repeated ones? Could be somethin’ goin’ on further down the line that a plumber needs to deal with.

3. Toilet Keeps Running

Who to call: Handyman (for flapper/chain fixes) → Plumber (if it won’t stop)A handyman can adjust basic parts. But if the thing just keeps runnin’... you’re prob’ly wastin’ water and money.

4. Leaky Showerhead

Who to call: HandymanThis one’s usually simple - tightenin’ or replacin’ the showerhead. But if it keeps leakin’ even after that? Might be a bigger issue in the pipes.

5. Low Water Pressure (Just One Faucet)

Who to call: Handyman → PlumberIf it’s just one spot, could be the aerator. But if low pressure’s happenin’ all over the house, ya need a plumber to take a look at your system.

6. Garbage Disposal Jam

Who to call: Handyman → Plumber (if it’s toast)Stuck disposal? A handyman can usually clear it. But if it’s leakin’ or fails more than once - yeah, that’s plumber territory.

7. Minor Drain Clogs

Who to call: HandymanShower or sink runnin’ slow? A handyman can try a snake or safe cleaner. If that doesn’t work (or clogs come back often), a plumber’ll get to the root of it.

8. Water Heater Issues

Who to call: PlumberAnythin’ with hot water goin’ wrong - leaks, noises, no hot water - it’s time to call in the pros. Water heaters ain’t DIY-friendly.

9. Burst Pipes

Who to call: PlumberThis is a full-blown emergency. No handyman’s fixin’ a burst pipe safely. Shut off your main valve and call us - fast.

10. Sewer Line Problems

Who to call: PlumberBackups? Gurgling toilets? That’s all sewer line stuff - and a handyman ain't equipped for that kind of job.

11. Installing New Fixtures

Who to call: Handyman (for basics) → Plumber (for anything tricky)Swappin’ out a faucet? Sure, a handyman can handle that. But for toilets, sinks, or full showers, especially if it means movin' lines - it’s plumber time.

12. Replacing Old Pipes

Who to call: PlumberThis is a big one. Old, corroded pipes need to be removed and installed right. Wrong install = leaks, damage, headaches. Not worth the risk.

13. Main Water Shutoff Valve

Who to call: PlumberYeah, it might sound like a small thing, but installin’ this wrong can mess up your whole system. Let a licensed plumber do it right.

Final Word:

Sure, a handyman can be handy. But when it comes to the stuff that keeps your water safe, your home dry, and your bills low - it’s best to bring in the big guns.

When in doubt, call us. We’ll make sure it’s done once - and done right.

Jensen Plumbing LLC📞 214-287-0445

Done Right the First Time. Every Time.