When you need something fixed around the house, sometimes nothing seems more convenient than the handyman services of your local jack-of-all-trades. However, there are some important things to keep in mind before you trust your money and your property to just anybody. While there are many handymen who have extensive experience and excellent references, there are, unfortunately, just as many who have little to no experience and a very shaky work history. Here we'll look at some of the things to consider before hiring a handyman.
The Job Itself
The size of the job you need help with should give you a good idea whether you can rely on a handyman or whether you may need to call in a licensed, specialized professional. A leaky faucet, for example, can easily be handled by a skilled handyman. However, depending on his experience, that same handyman may not have the skills or even the tools necessary to deal with a burst pipe and the resulting flooded basement.
This is an area where recommendations can come in very handy. Handyman services are often operated on a word-of-mouth basis. That is, the handyman relies heavily on his clients spreading the word about his services to other people. By talking with former clients, you can get a very good idea of what a particular handyman is, and is not, equipped to repair.
If you're new to an area, or if you've simply never hired a handyman in your area before, don't hesitate to either talk to your neighbors, ask the handyman for references, or both.
Licensing and Insurance
There are many handymen working today who possess one or more different licenses. They may be a licensed plumber and also do other work on the side. They may hold licenses in plumbing, carpentry and roofing and also do some work in the area of small electric jobs. These are the most desirable handymen services to hire, because it shows the client, up front and before any money is exchanged or work performed, that the handyman is dedicated to his career and has taken the time to become licensed. This sets him apart from other people in this line of work. It also usually entails some continuing education, which means that your handyman will be up on the very latest technology and techniques.
Insurance is important for any handyman to carry. Insurance lets you breathe a little easier, knowing that if the handyman becomes injured while on your property, not only will he be able to afford proper medical care, but there will not be a potentially costly lawsuit.
Ultimately, knowing a local handyman can save you hundreds of dollars in contractor fees if the handyman is extremely skilled and knowledgeable. It's up to you to ensure that all the necessary licenses and insurances policies are in place, and to ask for recommendations and references. Once you've found a good one, handyman services will be something you come to count on time and time again.
Posted by: TrustedProsSuggested Reading For You
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