2026 Pricing Guide for Burnaby, Vancouver & the Lower Mainland
You need something fixed. Maybe it’s a leaky faucet, a hole in the drywall, or a fence that won’t stay up. You’re ready to hire someone. But here’s the question everyone asks first: how much is this going to cost?
Let’s talk real numbers. No corporate speak, no hidden fees. Just honest pricing so you can budget your next home repair.
The Quick Answer
In Burnaby and the Greater Vancouver area, most handymen charge between $75-$150 per hour.
But that’s not the full story. The final cost depends on:
- What needs to be done
- How long it takes
- Materials needed
- Who you hire
Most handymen have a minimum charge. Even if your job takes 20 minutes, you’ll likely pay for at least one or two hours. That’s standard across Burnaby, Vancouver, and the rest of the Lower Mainland.
Why Handyman Costs Vary in Burnaby
Experience Matters
A handyman who’s been doing this for 20 years knows how to spot problems before they get worse. They work faster. They get it right the first time. You’re paying for skill and speed, not just time.
Licensed and Insured Costs More (and Should)
Some handymen charge less because they’re not licensed or insured. That’s fine for small jobs. But if something goes wrong, you’re on the hook. Licensed and insured professionals cost more because they protect you and your property.
Type of Work
Simple jobs cost less. Complex jobs cost more. Here’s what that looks like:
Lower end ($75-$100/hour):
- Hanging pictures or shelves
- Furniture assembly
- Basic repairs
- Painting touch-ups
Higher end ($100-$150/hour):
- Electrical work (like installing light fixtures)
- Plumbing repairs
- Drywall repair and patching
- Deck repairs
- Fence repairs
Here’s the thing: a good handyman can handle all of this. You’re paying for someone who can solve multiple problems in one visit instead of calling five different specialists.
Materials Add Up
Most handymen charge separately for materials. Some buy them for you and add a 20-30% markup. Others let you buy your own supplies to save money. Ask upfront which way they work.
If your handyman picks up materials for you, they might charge a trip fee. That’s fair. They’re using their time and gas.
Real Cost Examples in Burnaby
Here’s what you might actually pay for common jobs:
Fix a leaky faucet: $150-$300
Usually takes 1-2 hours. Simple repair if it’s just a washer. More if you need new parts or the whole faucet replaced.
Patch drywall holes: $200-$400
Depends on the size and how many holes. Small patch jobs are quick. Larger repairs need more time for sanding and painting.
Install a ceiling fan: $200-$400
Takes 2-3 hours if the wiring is already there. More if electrical work is needed.
Repair fence sections: $300-$600
Depends on how much needs fixing and what materials you’re using. Cedar costs more than pressure-treated wood.
Assemble IKEA furniture: $100-$250
Most handymen charge the minimum (1-2 hours) for this. Simple bed frame? Less time. Entertainment unit with 47 pieces? More time.
Should You Hire a Handyman or a Contractor?
This is where people get confused. Let’s clear it up.
Hire a handyman when:
- The job takes a day or less
- You don’t need a building permit
- It’s general maintenance or small repairs
- You have multiple small tasks to bundle together
Hire a contractor when:
- The project is big (like a full bathroom remodel)
- You need permits
- It involves major electrical or plumbing work
- Multiple tradespeople are needed
The line isn’t always clear. A good handyman can tell you when a job needs a licensed contractor. Trust that advice.
Handyman Services in Burnaby and Beyond
Looking for reliable handyman services? Eddy Property Services works throughout the Greater Vancouver area, including:
- Burnaby
- Vancouver
- Coquitlam
- Port Coquitlam
- Port Moody
- North Vancouver
- New Westminster
- Langley
We handle everything from quick repairs to ongoing property maintenance for homeowners and property managers. Licensed, insured, and ready to help.
How to Save Money on Handyman Services
Bundle your jobs.
Got a list of small repairs? Do them all at once. You’ll pay for one visit instead of three. Most handymen will work through a to-do list in a single day.
Buy your own materials.
If you have time to shop, do it. You’ll skip the markup. Just make sure you get the right stuff. Ask your handyman what to buy before you head to the hardware store.
Prep the area.
Clear the workspace before your handyman arrives. Move furniture, clear clutter. If they don’t have to spend time prepping, they can get straight to work.
Book on weekdays.
Some handymen charge more on weekends. Weekday bookings can save you 10-20%.
The Bottom Line on Handyman Costs
You’re looking at $75-$150 per hour in Burnaby and Vancouver. Factor in materials, minimum charges, and the type of work. Most jobs land between $150-$600.
Want transparency? Get a quote before work starts. A good handyman will tell you what to expect upfront. No surprises, no hidden fees.
Get a Free Estimate
Need something fixed? Eddy Property Services gives honest quotes for all handyman work in Burnaby and the Greater Vancouver area.
Call: 236-880-8768
Email: [email protected]
Location: 4720 Lougheed Highway, Burnaby, BC V5C 0M8
We’ll look at your job, give you a real number, and get it done right.
Common Questions About Handyman Costs
Do handymen charge by the hour or by the job?
Most charge by the hour, but some offer flat rates for common jobs like furniture assembly or installing a ceiling fan. Ask when you call.
Is there a minimum charge?
Yes. Most handymen charge for at least 1-2 hours minimum, even if your job takes 30 minutes. That covers their time and travel.
Do I need to provide materials?
Not always. Some handymen buy materials and add a markup. Others prefer you buy them yourself. Talk about it when you book.
What’s the difference between a handyman and a contractor?
Handymen handle small repairs and maintenance. Contractors take on bigger projects that need permits or specialized licenses. If you’re not sure which you need, ask. A good handyman will tell you honestly.
Should I tip my handyman?
It’s not required, but it’s appreciated. If they did great work, $20-$50 is a nice gesture. Or just leave a good review online. That helps their business.
How do I know if I’m getting a fair price?
Get quotes from 2-3 handymen. Compare their hourly rates and what’s included. The cheapest isn’t always the best. Look for someone licensed, insured, and with good reviews.