How much does a handyman charge per hour in St. Augustine?

Most handymen in St. Johns County charge 65 to 110 dollars per hour in 2026, with a one or two hour minimum, plus materials. Established companies with uniformed techs and trucks run toward the top of that or use flat rates per task. Expect a trip fee of 25 to 75 dollars if you are far from their base, such as Hastings or Vilano Beach.

Does a handyman need a license in Florida?

There is no state handyman license, but Florida restricts unlicensed people from doing work that falls under a licensed trade. Electrical, plumbing, gas, HVAC, roofing, structural changes, and most jobs requiring a permit must be done by a licensed contractor. St. Johns County enforces this and can cite the homeowner. For cosmetic and minor repairs, a handyman is fine; ask the office if a specific job is borderline.

Can a handyman install a ceiling fan or replace an outlet?

Technically, replacing a like for like fixture or device can fall into a gray area, but running new wiring, adding a circuit, or installing a fan where no box exists is electrical work that requires a licensed electrician in Florida. Many insured handymen will swap a fan on an existing fan rated box and decline anything more. If yours offers to do more, ask to see an electrical license.

What are the most common handyman jobs in a Florida home?

Locally the list is dominated by moisture and sun damage: rotted fascia and soffit, door and window caulking, drywall repair after a leak, screen enclosure patches, sticking sliding glass doors, pressure washing, and exterior touch-up paint. Newer homes in Nocatee and CR 210 generate punch list work like adjusting doors, fixing squeaky floors, and mounting TVs and shelves.

Should I hire a handyman or a contractor for a bathroom update?

If the job is swapping a vanity, faucet, mirror, and light on existing connections, an experienced handyman can usually do it. Once you move plumbing, change the layout, touch the shower pan, or need a permit, hire a licensed contractor. In St. Johns County, permits are required for most work beyond cosmetic finishes, and unpermitted work can surface at resale.

How do I avoid handyman scams?

Do not pay large deposits, do not hire someone who knocks on your door after a storm, and do not let anyone talk you into work your insurance company has not approved. Check reviews with photos, confirm insurance, and get the scope in writing. Door to door offers to clean your roof or redo your driveway are the most common complaints in the county.