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.