Top 15 Odd Jobs You Should Outsource to a Handyman

When it comes to keeping your home in shape, not every task needs a full renovation team but that doesn’t mean you should handle everything on your own. From hanging curtains to fixing loose tiles, odd jobs can pile up quickly. That’s where hiring a handyman near me becomes a smart move. 

If it’s small repairs, assembling furniture, or helping with a home renovation project, a professional handyman has the right tools and tradie skills to get it done efficiently and safely.

Trying to fix things around the house without experience can lead to injury or more damage. Instead, outsourcing these smaller tradie jobs saves you time and stress. Handymen are trained to handle multiple tasks in one visit, making them ideal for tackling the "to-do list" that’s been sitting around for weeks. Best of all, they deliver professional results without the hassle.

What Is Considered an Odd Job?

Not every repair or maintenance task in your home needs a licensed builder, plumber, or electrician. Some tasks are too small to call in a specialist, but still important enough that they shouldn’t be ignored. 

These are commonly known as odd jobs, simple tasks, or small repairs that can be done by a skilled handyman. If you’ve ever searched for a handyman near me, chances are you’ve got a list of these odd jobs piling up around the house.

So, what exactly is considered an odd job?

Odd jobs are minor tasks that don’t require specialist licenses but still need experience, tools, and attention to detail. They range from quick fixes to slightly more involved tasks that help keep your home running smoothly.

Common examples of odd jobs include:

• Hanging shelves, mirrors, or curtain rods

• Patching up small holes in the wall

• Fixing or replacing door handles, knobs, and locks

• Assembling flat-pack furniture

• Cleaning gutters or pressure-washing driveways

• Touch-up painting and minor wall repairs

• Replacing light bulbs or smoke detector batteries

• Installing TV brackets or small fixtures

• Weather-sealing doors and windows

These tasks may seem simple, but if you’re not confident with tools or short on time, they can quickly become frustrating. That’s why many homeowners rely on a handyman to fix things around the house safely and efficiently.

In the context of a home renovation project, handymen can also help with prep work, clean-up, and finishing touches. They fill the gap between large-scale tradie jobs and everyday maintenance tasks, providing versatile support at a reasonable cost.

So if you're tired of putting off all those "I'll get to it later" jobs, it might be time to call a handyman near you and tick them off your list.

15 Odd Jobs That a Handyman Should Do 

Sometimes, it’s the little things around the house that pile up, wobbly shelves, stuck doors, flickering lights, or cracked tiles. These small repairs, often ignored, can become frustrating over time. That’s where a local handyman steps in. 

A professional who specialises in odd jobs can save you hours of trial and error while ensuring everything is fixed properly and safely. If you've been searching "handyman near me" lately, this list is for you.

Here are 15 common household tasks a handyman can handle quickly and affordably:

1. Hanging Curtains, Blinds, and Wall Art

Uneven curtain rods or crooked wall frames can throw off your entire interior look. A handyman ensures your decor is level, secure, and damage-free. It’s a great way to finish a home renovation project without the guesswork.

2. Mounting TVs and Floating Shelves

Installing wall-mounted TVs or shelves isn’t just about looks—it’s about safety too. Improper anchoring can lead to accidents. A skilled handyman knows the right tools and wall types to get it done right.

3. Patching Walls and Filling Small Cracks

Got dents in the plaster or cracks in the paint? These small repairs may not seem urgent, but over time they affect your home’s appearance. A handyman can patch, sand, and touch up those spots in no time.

4. Replacing Light Bulbs and Smoke Alarm Batteries

Especially for high ceilings or hard-to-reach spots, changing bulbs or alarm batteries can be tricky. Instead of balancing on chairs, call a handyman who’ll get it done safely and fast.

5. Fixing Leaky Taps and Loose Fixtures

A dripping tap isn’t just annoying, it wastes water and money. Handymen are pros at quick plumbing fixes like tightening connections or changing washers.

6. Assembling Flat-Pack Furniture

Let’s be honest: furniture assembly can be a nightmare. A handyman can put together bookshelves, beds, or dining sets without missing screws or using the wrong wrench.

7. Installing Pet Doors and Baby Gates

Need to give your furry friend freedom or keep toddlers safe? From cutting into doors to properly anchoring gates, a handyman makes sure installations are secure and neat.

8. Cleaning Gutters and Downpipes

Clogged gutters can lead to roof leaks or water damage. A handyman with the right tools can clear leaves, mud, and debris safely—no ladders required on your part.

9. Replacing Door Locks and Handles

Whether it’s for security or convenience, upgrading locks or handles is an easy way to improve your home. A handyman ensures the job is done precisely, avoiding misalignments.

10. Painting Touch-Ups Around the House

Scuffed walls, chipped paint, or faded skirting boards? A handyman can tackle those quick paint jobs without you having to drag out the drop sheets and rollers.

11. Pressure Washing Outdoor Areas

Driveways, patios, and decks often collect grime and moss. A handyman with a pressure washer can revive those surfaces and improve your home’s kerb appeal instantly.

12. Fixing Squeaky Doors and Loose Hinges

Sometimes the smallest noises are the most annoying. Squeaky doors, rattling handles, or loose hinges are easily fixed with a handyman’s toolkit.

13. Fence and Gate Repairs

Whether it’s a gate that won’t latch or a fence panel that’s seen better days, minor carpentry jobs like these fall under common handyman tradie jobs.

14. Garden Tidy-Ups and Green Waste Removal

If your garden’s looking a bit wild, a handyman can help with trimming, weeding, and clearing debris. It’s perfect before open house inspections or seasonal changes.

15. Minor Tiling and Grout Repair

Cracked tiles or stained grout in the bathroom or kitchen? These jobs require precision, but they don’t always need a full renovation. A handyman can replace or re-grout small sections without the mess.

How to Choose the Right Handyman?

Finding the right handyman can make all the difference when it comes to tackling odd jobs and small repairs efficiently. Here’s how to make a smart choice:

• Know What You Need:
  Make a list of tasks you want done, this helps ensure the handyman has the right experience and tools for the job.

• Search on Trusted Platforms:
  Instead of scrolling endlessly, use reliable directories like the Trusted Tradie Network (TTN). It connects you with verified, reviewed, and insured handymen in your area.

• Check Licenses and Insurance:
  For tasks involving electrical or plumbing work, make sure the handyman holds the required licenses and public liability insurance.

• Review Past Work and Testimonials:
  Look for genuine reviews and before-after project photos to judge the quality and consistency of their work.

• Ask for a Clear Quote:
  A trustworthy handyman will give you an upfront quote detailing labour, materials (if any), and timelines.

• Assess Communication:
  A good handyman listens, asks smart questions, and keeps you informed from start to finish.

The Bottom Line 

Odd jobs around the house may seem small, but they can pile up quickly, leading to frustration, wasted weekends, or even injury if tackled incorrectly. That’s where a reliable handyman steps in. 

From fixing leaky taps and hanging curtains to pressure washing your driveway or patching walls, a skilled handyman can handle it all efficiently and safely. Whether you’re sprucing up for a home renovation project or just need someone to fix things around the house, outsourcing these tasks saves you time, ensures quality, and adds peace of mind.

To find a trustworthy expert, platforms like the Trusted Tradie Network make it easier than ever to connect with a local, reviewed, and experienced handyman near you. Don’t let odd jobs turn into big headaches, get the help you need, when you need it.