A handyman is usually the most affordable professional option. The hourly rate is typically lower than that of a licensed contractor, but a handyman might not be able to do larger or more specialized projects. The broad services available from a handyman are convenient if you mainly need lots of small tasks done. You can have one person knock out your entire to-do list instead of hiring multiple contractors.
If you have a large project, like a kitchen remodel or a room addition, you're better off working with a general contractor who can hire and manage multiple subcontractors. This is typically the most expensive option, but it is recommended for homeowners with little construction experience.
Even though a handyman doesn't have to be licensed, you still want to ensure the person or company you hire is qualified to do the work. Doing some research on different aspects of the handyman helps you make the right choice.
Some handymen work as independent contractors, which means they work for themselves. They schedule their appointments and do all of the actual work on your home. You can also choose a handyman service that employs lots of workers. Some of these companies do a background check on its employees before hiring them, which can give you peace of mind. Both independent contractors and handyman companies can offer high-quality work, but you need to do thorough research to ensure they're qualified.
Knowing where to find a good handyman helps you get your job done quickly and correctly. Word of mouth is a reliable way to find a handyman with the skill set you need. In addition to asking your friends, co-workers, and other locals, you can also use the HandymanHost website, which lets you connect with people in your neighborhood. It's a good place to ask for referrals for a handyman or for other home improvement services you need.
Next, verify that the handyman has liability insurance that covers the work they do. The handyman should provide you with a certificate of insurance if you ask. You can also ask for the insurance company's phone number to verify that the policy is still valid. Never hire a handyman without liability coverage, as it protects you in case something goes wrong during the job.
Look for experience in the type of repairs you need to have done. For example, if you're renovating your bathroom, look for a handyman who has installed tile, replaced faucets, or painted vanities. You might ask about what types of projects the handyman does regularly or where he got his experience. For licensed contractors, such as electricians and plumbers, there is typically an apprenticeship that the person completes. Anyone can call themselves a handyman, so finding out if they are self-taught or if they have some type of formal training can help you decide.
Asking questions helps you learn more about the handyman's qualifications. Some questions to ask a handyman you're considering for the job include:
You can ask the handyman directly for references from past clients or photos of previous jobs. Don't be afraid to call past clients to get their take on the handyman, from professionalism to quality of work.
Online reviews and ratings are easier to find than ever if you don't want to ask for references. Be sure to check for red flags. Just one bad review could be a disgruntled client who wouldn't be happy with anything, but multiple negative reviews about the same issues should make you wonder if there's a reason for concern.
Ask the handyman for a copy of the contract so you can review it before you sign anything. Having a contract protects you and the handyman by defining the scope of the project and specifics of the work. If the handyman fails to provide the services the way he promised, the contract can be useful if you decide to pursue legal action.
Before you set a handyman loose on your entire house, consider a trial project. Pick something small and relatively easy for them to do for you. This gives you the chance to see how the person interacts with you, treats your home, handles payments, and does the job. If you like what you see, schedule time for the handyman to do the rest of the tasks on your to-do list.
Some handymen charge an hourly rate, while others charge a flat rate for different types of jobs. The average hourly rate is between $50 and $80 for a self-employed handyman or $75 to $125 for a corporate handyman. This price doesn't include the materials, which can be cheaper to buy yourself. Handymen often mark up materials prices by 20 to 50 percent or charge you $30 to $80 for the trip to the hardware store.
Pricing can vary based on the project. For example, furniture assembly averages between $85 and $200, leaky faucet repair averages $65 to $150, and painting a room is usually between $350 and $850. The average costs give you some idea of what to expect, but always ask for a quote for your home projects before hiring someone.
Many states don't require handyman licensing, but most states limit what a handyman can do without a license. In Louisiana, a handyman needs a license if the project exceeds $7,500. In Minnesota, a license is required if the handyman makes over $15,000 per year. Some cities have their own requirements for handyman licensing. For example, New York City requires a home improvement contractor license for any person or business doing construction, repair, remodeling, and home improvement work on residential land or buildings.
Check with the contractors' board in your state to determine the licensing requirements. Check with your city government to determine if it has special handyman licensing requirements. For example, you might not be able to use a handyman for a project that requires building permits or exceeds a certain dollar amount. This research helps you know what to look for when comparing handyman services.
A handyman can have certifications or licensing in specific areas even if he's not required. Someone who has worked as a plumber for a plumbing company might offer handyman services, for example. That person might still hold a plumbing license. Ask about any licenses and certifications the handyman holds to learn about his qualifications and to determine if they can handle more advanced tasks.
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