Construction & Contractors Blog
Although DIY home repairs have become more popular in recent years, perhaps because of the availability of how-to articles and videos on the internet, tackling home projects yourself is not always an option. If there is a task that is too big or daunting for you to tackle, or if you simply do not have the right tools to do it yourself, then hiring a handyman can be a good solution. Handymen can often do everything, from changing a light bulb to putting down simple flooring. However, because there is so much variety in their services, hiring one is not always as straightforward as you might hope. Here are some tips to keep things simple when you hire a handyman for the first time.
1. Ask for referrals rather than just looking online.
While some handyman services do advertise online, many operations are just individual contractors who find work via word-of-mouth. So if you're looking to hire a handyman, you should ask your friends and relatives whether they have any recommendations. This is a good way to find someone reputable.
2. Hire the handyman for a small project first.
Maybe you ultimately need a window replaced or some tiles replaced in your kitchen, but hiring someone to tackle one of these large jobs initially is not always the best approach. Hire the handyman to do something small, like install a new light fixture or fix a leaky faucet, first. If you get along well and payment goes smoothly, then you will have more confidence and a pre-existing report that helps if you decide to hire them for a larger job.
3. Get an estimate in writing for any larger jobs.
It's not usually necessary to get a written estimate for a small task like changing a light fixture. But if you're hiring a handyman for a project that will take more than a couple of hours, do get a written estimate. This way, there are no surprises when the bill comes. You'll both have a better understanding of what the project entails and how much it will cost.
4. Ask about permits.
Permitting requirements are different in every town or city. In one town, you might need a permit for something little like replacing the floor. In another city, you may only need a permit to have work done on your home's exterior. Always ask the handyman about permitting requirements before you have any work done. They can either get the permit for you or put you in touch with the building permits office.
Hiring a handyman is a great way to get projects done around the home. With the tips above, you'll be off to a good start.
Share12 October 2020
My name is Debbie Greenberg. I’m a single woman who owns her home, and like most homeowners I dread home repairs. I’m not very handy with do-it-yourself projects around the house. I can do a few minor repairs when necessary, but for the most part I have to call in a professional. Last year I had a leak in my roof. When it rained, water would leak into my kitchen. What appeared to be a simple fix turned out to be anything but simple. It took over four months to finally identify the problem, and double the money I was initially quoted to fix it. The problem ended up being that the flat part of my roof didn't have shingles, but a sheeting material. I learned a bit about home roofs along the way, and that is what I want to share with you.
