How to Start a Handyman On-Call Business in Kenya
Introduction
The handyman business in Kenya is a practical service hustle that thrives on the constant need for small repairs and maintenance. From fixing leaking taps and replacing sockets to hanging shelves and repairing doors, there are endless everyday jobs that households, offices, and shops require. Many people don’t have the tools, skills, or time to handle these tasks, which makes hiring a handyman the easiest option. Starting a handyman on-call service allows you to earn daily income while building trust and repeat clients in your community.
Startup Costs 💰
This hustle requires very little capital — mostly for tools and basic marketing.
- Capital Needed: KES 5,000 – 15,000
- Key Expenses:
- Basic toolkit (hammer, pliers, screwdrivers, spanner, measuring tape) — KES 3,000 – 7,000
- Power drill (optional but useful) — KES 3,000 – 5,000
- Branding (business cards, flyers, reflective jacket) — KES 1,000 – 2,000
- Transport (boda boda fares, if needed) — variable
💡 Tip: Start with the most essential tools, then expand your kit as you earn.
Why This Business Works ✅
- Everyday Demand: Repairs and small jobs are always needed.
- Low Capital: Tools are a one-time investment.
- Flexible Market: Serve homes, offices, and shops.
- Repeat Clients: Good service leads to steady referrals.
- Scalable: Grow into a formal maintenance company.
Step-by-Step Setup 🛠️
1. Build Basic Skills
- Learn plumbing basics (fixing leaks, installing taps).
- Electrical basics (changing sockets, switches).
- Carpentry (hanging shelves, repairing doors).
- Painting and small touch-ups.
Free tutorials on YouTube can sharpen your skills if you don’t have formal training.
2. Buy Essential Tools
Invest in a starter toolkit and carry it in a portable bag.
3. Define Your Services
Offer affordable, quick solutions like:
- Fixing leaking taps.
- Changing bulbs and sockets.
- Hanging TV mounts, shelves, or curtains.
- Painting small walls.
4. Set Prices
- Small job (15–30 mins): KES 300 – 500
- Medium job (1–2 hours): KES 800 – 1,500
- Daily rate (for multiple tasks): KES 2,000 – 3,500
5. Market Yourself
- Distribute flyers in estates.
- Share your number in estate WhatsApp groups.
- List your services on online platforms like Jiji and Facebook.
- Wear branded overalls or reflective jackets for trust.
Profit Breakdown 📊
Example:
- 3 small repair jobs daily at KES 500 each = KES 1,500.
- 1 medium repair job = KES 1,200.
- Total = KES 2,700 per day.
👉 Weekly = ~KES 13,000.
👉 Monthly = KES 40,000 – 60,000 depending on consistency.
As you gain more clients, you can cross KES 100,000 per month with referrals and bulk jobs.
Challenges & How to Overcome Them ⚠️
- Trust Issues: Customers may hesitate with strangers.
- Solution: Build credibility through referrals and professionalism.
- Unpredictable Workload: Some days may have no jobs.
- Solution: Market aggressively and build long-term contracts.
- Tool Breakage/Replacement: Frequent use can wear tools out.
- Solution: Set aside part of profits for reinvestment.
- Competition: Many casual fundis offer similar services.
- Solution: Differentiate with punctuality, neat work, and honesty.
Tips to Grow 🚀
- Partner with property managers for steady repair contracts.
- Offer emergency call-outs for plumbing/electricity issues.
- Create packages (e.g., monthly maintenance checks).
- Expand into larger jobs like painting, tiling, or carpentry.
- Brand your business with a name like “Fix-It Fast Kenya.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓
Q: How much capital do I need to start a handyman business in Kenya?
A: With KES 5,000 – 15,000, you can buy basic tools and start offering services.
Q: How profitable is this business?
A: Handymen can earn KES 2,000 – 3,000 daily, with monthly profits of KES 40,000 – 60,000+.
Q: Do I need training to start?
A: Not necessarily — basic repair skills and a willingness to learn are enough to begin.
Q: Where can I find clients?
A: Estates, apartments, offices, shops, and referrals from satisfied customers.
Conclusion
The handyman on-call business in Kenya is a practical, low-capital hustle that provides steady daily income by solving everyday problems. With KES 5,000 – 15,000, you can buy tools, market your services, and begin helping homes and offices with small repairs. By being reliable, professional, and affordable, you can build trust and grow into a recognized maintenance brand.
👉 Explore more hustler-friendly opportunities in the Business Ideas Hub — with over 50+ small businesses you can start today.
