Handyman - Top Questions When Hiring One

The right questions help you determine whether or not you have found a qualified, quality handyman for your home improvement tasks. Before you sign a contract, make sure you ask these top five questions.

When you are in the market for the services of a handyman, you must understand the answers to some important questions before you set up the contract. By asking these questions before the individual begins working, you ensure that you are getting the most value for the dollars you are spending on the services, and also protect yourself from being scammed.

Can I Get an Estimate?

Some handymen will charge by the job, while others charge by the hour. If the one you are considering charges by the hour, an estimate is going to be difficult to come by. Ask if you can have an estimate beforehand. Someone who is confident in his work will be able to provide an accurate estimate, and this helps you budget for the job to be completed.

How Will I Pay?

A professional may require all payment upfront, or he may allow you to pay in installments. Some individuals require a deposit upfront that is used to pay bills and buy supplies while the work is underway, while others will allow you to pay when the project is fully complete and you are fully satisfied. No payment method is better than another, per se, but you need to understand what is expected and be able to comply with the payment request.

Will You Need a Subcontractor?

Some jobs, like plumbing and electric work, require the services of a licensed specialist. If your handyman does not carry the necessary licensure for these types of tasks, he will need to subcontract some of the work out to someone who does. Make sure you know what subcontractors will be used and how they will be paid before the job begins. If you wish to find your own specialist, ask the contractor if this is acceptable.

What Is in the Contract?

Always ask about the contract before hiring a contractor. Choose a contractor who is willing to provide you with a written contract. Ask what is in that contract. You want a contract that includes not only the price and the work to be done, but also any guarantees or warranties the contractor has told you he will offer. This protects you from an unscrupulous contractor who goes back on his word when you need to use the guarantee or warranty.

Can You Give Me References?

A quality handyman will have a list of verifiable references you can call to check on his workmanship and professional demeanor. If your contractor cannot or will not provide references, you will probably want to find a different one. When you get the references, call one or two, or drive by the home if it was an exterior job that was done. This will give you the ability to judge for yourself whether or not you want to hire that particular contractor for the work you need done on your home.

These five questions are simple, but they give you a lot of insight into the work that a handyman will perform. Never enter into an agreement until you have asked them and gotten satisfactory answers.

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