Comparison Guide

Plumber vs Handyman: Which Do You Need (and Save Money)?

Use a handyman (£30–£60/hr) for minor, non-notifiable jobs like a dripping tap washer or fitting a new toilet seat; use a qualified plumber (£40–£80/hr) for anything involving the mains water supply, gas, or work that needs certification.

When a handyman is the cheaper, right choice

For small, low-risk jobs a handyman is both cheaper and perfectly capable: replacing a tap washer, fitting a toilet seat, sealing around a bath, mounting a towel rail, or swapping a like-for-like shower head.

A handyman’s hourly rate (£30–£60) is lower than a plumber’s, and these jobs do not need certification — so paying specialist rates would be a waste.

When you must use a qualified plumber

Anything connected to the mains water supply, the gas supply, or that needs a certificate should go to a qualified plumber or — for gas — a Gas Safe registered engineer.

That includes moving pipework, fitting a new bathroom suite, installing or repairing a boiler, anything behind a wall, and any job where a mistake floods the house or risks a gas leak. Here the plumber’s higher rate buys you the right insurance and a job done to standard.

The simple rule

If the worst that can happen is a small drip you can mop up, a handyman is fine. If the worst case is a flood, a gas leak, or a failed certificate, book the specialist. When in doubt, a plumber’s quote is usually free — ask first.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can a handyman fix a leaking tap?

Yes — replacing a worn tap washer or cartridge is a routine handyman job and far cheaper than calling a plumber. But if the leak is from the pipework or a valve behind the wall, that is plumber territory.

Is a handyman cheaper than a plumber?

Yes, a handyman’s hourly rate (£30–£60) is lower than a plumber’s (£40–£80). For minor, non-notifiable jobs that saves money. For anything involving the mains or gas, a plumber is the correct — and ultimately cheaper — choice.