I’ve been doing handyman work since I was a kid and have been in business professionally for 11 years. As the owner of Ruff N Build LLC, I handle a wide range of projects, from general handyman jobs and TV mounting to light remodeling like basement finishes and bathroom updates.
As a licensed Residential Building Contractor, I’m detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and committed to doing things the right way. My business has evolved into work on a much larger scale with a wide verity of projects that I do. I aim to please and satisfy my customers and educate as well with my building code knowledge as well! I work solo, so you’ll always deal directly with me, and I respond quickly to questions and messages.
If you’re looking for reliable help with installations, repairs, or small remodeling projects, feel free to ***** or ******* and let’s talk about your project.
Overview
Current Top Pro
Hired 238 times
Background checked
License verified
1 employee
11 years in business
Business hours
SunClosedMon8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Square cash app, Venmo, and Zelle.
Top Pro status
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2025
2024
2023
2022
2021
Credentials
License verified
Residential Building Contractor
License state: MN
Background checked
Passed by James Ruffin on Oct 22, 2020.
Services offered
Project type
New lighting installation
Replacement of lighting
Ceiling height
Under 8 feet
8 - 10 feet
10 - 14 feet
Over 14 feet
Construction type
Existing properties
Remodels
New construction
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, responsiveness, and professionalism.
Excellent 4.9
156 reviews
5
92%
4
6%
3
1%
2
0%
1
1%
Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our review guidelines.
Read reviews that mention:
Elizabeth R.
1 month ago
•
Hired on Thumbtack
James is a great professional, and I highly recommend him for any work in your home!
He was extremely responsive, helpful, and patient with all of my questions, no matter how many I had or how small they were. He installed a ceiling fan where there was no existing electrical box, which required quite a bit of electrical work, and he handled everything like a pro.
I will absolutely be contacting James for future projects in my home.
One tip if you're considering hiring James: Thumbtack charges him for each lead, with larger projects costing him more. If you have a smaller project, booking him for that first may be a better option.
If you're on the fence, James is a great choice. Highly recommend!!
Details: Less than 2 hours (Simple tasks) • Installation • Bedroom • Wall hangings • Home
Handyman
Shahla V.
Oct 27, 2025
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Look no further!
James was very responsive, came out quickly and was able to get our fan and light working! He is very professional and I will hire him again if something comes up.
Details: Yes, the location has an existing fan • Ceiling • Over 14 feet (lofty ceiling)
Fan Installation
Elary H.
Oct 28, 2025
•
Hired on Thumbtack
James was a life saver! He came and took care of my project (installing two ceiling fans, replacing a bathroom light fixture, and fixing 3 electrical issues) same day and did a very professional and efficient job. I would hire him again!
James was amazing! He removed and installed two light fixtures from high ceilings and they look great. So happy to have his help with this project. Would use him again
I paid $900 for an exterior light system install. The lights had a few issues after installation, but after some discussion we were able to find a workable solution.
Details: Replacement of existing lighting • 5-10 lights • The lights will not be installed in the ceiling • Outdoors • Existing property • House
