What you need to know to find a local handyman
Choosing the Right Handyman for Your Home Maintenance and Repairs
When selecting a handyman there are several factors to consider beyond just price. First, ensure that the person is licensed and runs a legitimate business, rather than merely advertising in the classifieds. Verify that the business is both licensed and insured. At the end of this post, I’ve included links on how to look up a business by state to confirm its licensing status.
Why Licensing Is Important
A business license is often a sign of professionalism and accountability. While licensing doesn’t guarantee honesty, it’s an encouraging indicator. Always get everything in writing to protect yourself. Additionally, ask to see a copy of their insurance policy. This ensures that any accidental damage to your home will be covered.
Check if the handyman has a website. This might showcase photos of their previous work and highlight any specific areas of expertise, such as painting or general home repairs. Reviews are another excellent resource—look for any complaints and evaluate whether they seem reasonable. Recommendations from friends and family are also invaluable, as word-of-mouth referrals often lead to trusted professionals.
While this might sound like extra effort, having someone work in your home makes it worth ensuring the safety and comfort of you and your family.
They Passed the Initial Checks—Now What?
Once you find a handyman who meets these criteria, call them to request an estimate, especially for larger jobs. If you’re uncertain, gather multiple estimates for comparison. Written agreements are crucial—they set clear expectations for both work and payment timelines.
Keep in mind that skilled handyman are often busy, so schedule your project well in advance if you have a specific deadline. Additionally, many jobs require a deposit, especially if special materials are needed. A deposit enables the business to purchase necessary supplies.
If you’re uncomfortable paying a deposit upfront, you might offer to purchase the materials yourself. This arrangement provides peace of mind while ensuring the business has what it needs to complete the job.
What Works for You
I’ve had various repair people come to my home over the years, and I’ve learned the hard way that feeling comfortable with someone in your home is just as important as their qualifications. For instance, I once hired an appliance repair person who made me uneasy, so I felt compelled to watch them the entire time.
Even when someone meets all the qualifications, their personality might not mesh well with yours. Don’t hesitate to find someone whose demeanor and approach align better with your needs.
I know the process of finding reliable help can feel overwhelming, but doing your due diligence upfront increases the likelihood of a positive outcome. The good news is that once you find a dependable handyman, you won’t have to repeat this search.
Search for Business License by state
