HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS: CHOOSING A HANDYMAN
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one of which writes very helpful articles for home owners->
Thanks Pillar to Post for sharing this advice!
Whether it’s a big project such as a bathroom remodel, something small like putting up
shelves, or repairs and routine maintenance, many homeowners turn to handymen to
get the job done. It used to be that everyone knew “a guy down the street who can do
everything”, but these days finding a qualified, professional, and reliable handyman can
be a real challenge. Here are some tips for homeowners to ensure that they have the
right person for the job:
1. MAKE SURE THEY ARE QUALIFIED FOR THE WORK
Certain projects require specific skills that all handymen may not have. You will
of course want to know that they have the qualifications and experience to do the
job. In addition, many states require persons performing certain work to be
licensed; electrical and plumbing often fall into this category. Check with your
state on whether such licenses are required and verify the status of the
contractor’s license if it applies.
2. ASK FOR REFERENCES
Request at least two local references from previous customers. The handyman
should be willing to do this without hesitation. Then, contact those references!
Ask about the quality of the work, timeliness, professionalism, and how the
handyman handled any changes that may have occurred during the course of the
project. Also ask how satisfied they were with the work overall.
3. CHECK OUT ONLINE REVIEWS
Online review sites such as Yelp and Google Places can offer insights into what
kind of experience people have had with specific handymen. These types of
reviews can be helpful in getting an overall impression, but a straight “thumbs
up/thumbs down” review may not provide the information you’re looking for.
Membership sites such as Angie’s List are another good source of reviews.
4. VERIFY INSURANCE COVERAGE
Liability insurance is always a good idea. If the handyman or another worker is
injured while working on your property, you may be held liable for medical costs.
Ask for evidence of coverage before agreeing to any work. Uninsured handymen
often charge less for their services because they lack the overhead expense of
insurance, but it could cost you in the long run.
5. GET WRITTEN ESTIMATES AND A CONTRACT
Ideally, ask three handymen for written estimates for the work you have in mind.
Be sure that each estimate contains enough detail so that you can make a
comparison between them. For example, are the specified materials of the same
quality? Does the cost include cleanup and hauling away any debris or
old/broken items? Read all contracts carefully and be sure to ask about anything
that you are unsure of.
6. DETERMINE THE PAYMENT SCHEDULE BEFORE YOU SIGN
Beware if you are asked to pay for the entire job up front – this is not an accepted
business practice and could leave you open to fraud. Handymen will often ask for
50% when the contract is signed, which will allow them to purchase materials for
the job and assure them that you are committed. Be sure to request receipts for
all payments.
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Article courtesy of Pillar To Post
Pillartopost.com