HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS: CHOOSING A HANDYMAN* |
Whether it's a big project such as a bathroom remodel, something small like putting up shelves, or repairs and routine maintenance, many homeowners turn to handymen to get the job done. It used to be that everyone knew "a guy down the street" who could do everything, but these days finding a qualified, professional , and reliable handyman can be a real challenge. Here are some tips for homeowners to ensure that they have the right person for the job: |
MAKE SURE THEY ARE QUALIFIED FOR THE WORK |
Certain projects require specific skills that all handymen may not have. Make sure that they have the qualifications and experience to do the job. In addition, many states and provinces require persons performing certain work to be licensed; electrical and plumbing often fall into this category. |
ASK FOR REFERENCES |
Request at least two local references from previous customers. The handyman should be willing to do this without hesitation. Then, contact those references! Ask about the quality of the work, timeliness, professionalism, and how the handyman handled any changes that may have occurred during the course of the project. Also ask how satisfied they were with the work overall. |
CHECK ON INSURANCE COVERAGE |
Liability insurance is always a good idea. If the handyman or another worker is injured while working on your property, you may be held liable for medical costs. Ask for evidence of coverage before agreeing to any work. Uninsured handymen often charge less for their services because they lack the overhead expense of insurance, but using one could cost you in the long run. |
GET WRITTEN ESTIMATES AND A CONTRACT |
Ideally, you should ask three handymen for written estimates for the work you have in mind. Be sure that each estimate contains enough detail so that you can make a comparison between them. For example, are the specified materials of the same quality? Does the cost include cleanup and hauling away any debris or old/broken items? Read all contracts carefully and be sure to ask about anything that you are unsure of. |
DETERMINE THE PAYMENT SCHEDULE BEFORE YOU SIGN |
Beware if you are asked to pay for the entire job up front - this is not an accepted business practice and could leave you open to fraud. Handymen will often ask for 50% when the contract is signed, which will allow them to purchase materials for the job and assure them that you are committed. Be sure to request receipts for all payments. |
* source: http://www.handymanconnection.com/ |
Edina Realty - Minneapolis, MN
www.TwinCitySeller.com
In Minnesota, Handymen can be licensed general contractors, incorporated and insured. Angie's List is another good resource to check references for a Handy man!
Apr 30, 2007 01:41 PM
S & B Services LLC - North Kingstown, RI
Pillar To Post Professional Home Inspection - Middleburg, FL
Thanks for your question Bruce,
I would first find out if your particular state requires a license in order to practice as a "handyman" and if it is required find out what type of work they are allowed to preform. I would ask lots of questions with regard to the type of work you are hiring the handyman for to make sure it's not the first time they have tackled this type of work. If they are competent in answering your questions this should add to your confidence in their ability to do the work. I would also ask for references of people they have preformed this type of work for in the past. Getting prices from several different handymen is also advised. A very low price or a really high price may be and indication that the company is not qualified to do the work.
May 01, 2007 01:17 PM
Helm Home Inspections - Bellingham, WA
Bellingham, Wa. Licensed Home Insp
In Washington, a "handyman" must be licensed as a contractor. In order to be licensed, the hm must have general liability and bond. If they are not licensed, stay away. A license does not mean that the hm is good at what he or she does, but it means that they are following the law and are probably serious about their business. Check for license and do all the other things that Mike says.
May 04, 2007 03:31 AM
Marathon Constructors Inspection Services - Seward, AK
Inspector-Seward, Alaska
In Alaska a handy man must be licensed, but he is limited to what he is allowed to do. He can replace a light bulb, replace a switch or receptacle, repair a broken step. But, he is not a licensed electrician, plumber, or carpenter.
Alaska Don
May 12, 2007 05:14 PM
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