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Tips on Hiring a Handyman Contractor

Hiring a contractor can be a very stressful situation.  But hiring a reliable contractor can save you time, money, and frustration when  home repairs and maintenance are needed. To ensure you hire the right professional for the job, here are some tips. 

1. Define Your Needs

Before searching for a handyman, make a list of the repairs or projects you need done. Handymen typically handle small to medium-sized jobs like minor plumbing or electrical work, painting, fixing drywall, installing shelves or fixtures. For larger projects, such as major renovations, you may need a specialized contractor instead.

2. Check Qualifications and Experience

Not all handymen are equally skilled. Ask about their experience with the type of work you need and whether they have specific training or certifications. Some states require handymen to be licensed for certain types of jobs, such as electrical or plumbing work.

3. Ask for References and Read Reviews

A reputable handyman should be able to provide references from past clients. Additionally, check online reviews on platforms like Angi, Yelp, Home Advisor or Google Reviews.  Look for consistent positive feedback and beware of repeated complaints about reliability or workmanship. How did they handle customer complaints?  Was the work completed on time?  Often times, the best recommendation comes from people you may know who used reliable contractors.  

4. Verify Licensing and Insurance

If your state or locality requires licensing for handymen, ask for proof of certification and check for expiration dates. Ensure they have general liability insurance to cover potential  property damage.  Also, check to see their employees also carry worker's compensation insurance to protect against job injuries.

5. Get Multiple Quotes

Get at least three quotes from different handymen to compare pricing and services. Be wary of extremely low bids, which may indicate subpar materials or rushed work.

6. Request a Written Contract

 Even for small jobs, a contract protects both parties. It should include the work that will be done, an estimated cost and payment terms, a timeline the work will be completed and a warranty or guarantee of the work that performed. Avoid paying the full amount upfront; instead, opt for a deposit with the balance due upon completion.

7. Ask About Materials and Tools

Some handymen provide their own materials, while others expect you to purchase them. Clarify this in advance to avoid unexpected costs.

8. Confirm Availability and Communication

A good handyman should be responsive and clear in communication. If they are hard to reach before starting the job, it may indicate future scheduling or reliability issues.

9. Beware of Red Flags

 Red flags to look for include being unlicensed for the specific job.  Some projects, such as electrical or plumbing, require a licensed professional. If a contractor has no reference to offer or has bad reviews, this may indicate poor performance or being inexperienced.  Also, avoid contractors who demand full payment upfront prior to work being done. And if no written agreement or contract is offered, interview another contractor, as a lack of documentation can lead to disputes.

10. Consider a Trial Project