Handyman Services

Handyman Services:
Everything You Need to Know

Use the information below to learn more about hiring a local handyman. If you're ready to find a pro in your area, ProMatcher can help you get free cost estimates now.

1. What is a handyman? A handyman is a skilled professional who is able to complete many different home maintenance projects and repairs. There is no set job description, but they tend to perform odd jobs and various tasks around the house that are beyond the capabilities of the homeowner. If you just don’t have the time to tackle these projects, a handyman can complete your list of projects in a relatively short amount of time.

2. What types of services does a handyman provide? There are many different projects that a handyman can complete, although they may have one particular area of expertise. A handyman can unclog a drain, paint rooms, hang shelving units, clean gutters, install light fixtures, or mount a TV on the wall. The list could go on forever. It can't hurt to ask the handyman for a service list of projects that he commonly does.

3. How much does it cost to hire a handyman?
The cost of handyman services can vary greatly. The cost will depend on the type of work you need done and how much time it will require. Many handymen charge an hourly rate for their services. In most cases, there will be a set minimum charge for the first hour. Other handymen may charge by the job. Regardless of how long it takes to complete, you will just pay a fixed fee for that particular task. If you have a lot of work that needs to be done around the house, some handyman services may offer a daily rate. In addition to the cost of labor, you will be responsible for the cost of all supplies, parts, and materials.

4. Are emergency calls extra? Many handymen are available 24 hours day, 7 days a week. However, calls made outside of regular hours (9-5) will generally be a little more expensive. If a pipe bursts in the middle of the night, waiting until the morning to call a handyman just isn’t an option. Response time is key!

5. Does a handyman need a license? It depends where you live and what type of work you need done. A handyman that does plumbing and electrical work usually needs some sort of license. In some jurisdictions, the cost of the work completed determines whether a license needed. For instance, if the handyman charges less than a certain dollar amount, by law, they do not need to be licensed.

6. Will I need a permit? It really depends the type of work that you are having done. For minor repairs, it is unlikely that you will need a permit. However, for larger projects like bathroom remodels, a permit may be required. Your home handyman should be able to help you through the permit process. The cost of any permit inspections should be included in the cost breakdown of the estimate.

7. Does a handyman need insurance? Yes! You should never hire a contractor that cannot provide proof of insurance. If the handyman were to fall off a ladder on your property, you could be in trouble. Always make sure that any contractor working on your home has basic liability insurance.

8. Should I ask for references? Yes, asking for references is a great idea. Before hiring a handyman, take a few minutes to call some of their past customers. Happy customers, that are willing to vouch for the handyman’s work, are always a good sign. If the handyman is unable to provide any references, this should be a serious red flag.

9. Should I sign a contract? Signing a contract is the best way to protect yourself. The contract should be as detailed as possible. It should include the cost breakdown, warranty information, and details about the project timeline. Getting everything in writing upfront can help avoid later confusion.

10. Will a handyman bring his own tools? Yes, the handyman should bring his own tools. You shouldn’t feel like you need to provide any additional equipment.

11. Do I need to purchase the necessary parts and materials? Whether you buy the materials or not, the cost will be your responsibility. You may be able to save a few dollars by running to the store and buying any supplies yourself. If you don’t have the time, the handyman will usually be able to get them for you.

12. Do I need to be home when the handyman arrives? Yes, you will need to be home while the handyman is working on your home. However, many handymen have flexible hours. You should be able find a time that is convenient for you and your schedule.

13. When should I hire a general contractor instead of a handyman? A handyman specializes in odd jobs and minor repairs. You don’t need to hire a contractor to hang up a few pictures or touch up some paint. Major projects like remodels, renovations, and additions are should be handled by a licensed general contractor. These types of projects typically require the coordination of several subcontractors, cost more money, and take much longer to complete.

So... Are you ready to start your project?

ProMatcher can help you get free cost estimates from a number of handymen in your area. Getting several cost estimates will ensure that you are getting a fair price. For more about the cost of local handyman services, use ProMatcher's Handyman Services Cost Report to find the cost in your town.

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