You have finally decided it is time to bring in a professional to work on your home. Whether you select a handyman from a professional service company or an independent handyman who lives in the neighborhood there are 5 mandatory questions you must ask to help insure reliable service and avoid getting ripped off.
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1.) Are they insured? Check to make sure they are bonded or have insurance in case they cause damage to your home while working on your home. Make sure they have at least general liability insurance in event of an accident.
2.) Do they have or need a license for the work you want done? This is especially important when it comes to trades such as plumbing and electrical. Your handyman should be familiar with any city code requirements for the work they are performing. Contact the state licensing board if you are unsure.
3.) How long have they been in business? Make sure you ask your potential handyman his or her experience when it comes to exactly what you are hiring them to do. Then ask for two or more references.
4.) What will the job cost granted their are no unforeseen problems they might encounter? If it is a small job you can probably get a quick estimate over the phone. If it is a big job be weary if they are giving you a quote without seeing the project at hand. Confirm if they charge by the hour or by the job. It is also recommended you get a flat rate as an hourly handyman could get really expensive real quick. Get at least 2-3 other bids for the job to make sure you are not getting ripped off. GET THE ESTIMATE IN WRITING SO YOU KNOW THE TOTAL BEFOREHAND!!!
5.) Is a warranty is included and do they guarantee their work. Make sure the guarantee is specific with details covering your project. If a warranty is included find out if it has a reasonable amount of time before expiring. Two years is probably enough, but it really depends on the type of work you are having done. Simply stating a warranty isn't good enough. Get it in writing and understand its limitations! A good handyman is happy to stand behind his warranty and uses quality materials. If your handyman will not put his or her guarantee in writing then shop around for someone who does.
References:
The best place to start asking about hiring a handyman is from your family, friends, neighbors, fellow church members, or coworkers. Other good sources of referrals include contractors, and your local hardware store. When asking for referrals, be sure to check the type of job the handyman was called in to accomplish. Also, determine if the handyman specializes in residential or commercial work.
Some good questions to ask the references:
1. Were you happy with the quality provided by the handyman?
Everybody has their own ideas of quality, so you should take a look at their house and judge for yourself. Pay attention to the small details like touch up painting or finishing wood work.
Did the handyman protect other areas surrounding their work area?
For exteriors this includes concrete, roofing and plantings. For interiors moving and protecting furniture is a major concern, but do not forget about the flooring. If a handyman was sloppy with one customer chances are they will be sloppy with all of them. If you are left to clean up after your handyman this will cost you more time and money including frustration.
Were they courteous and polite?
This is a very important consideration. The entire experience, from beginning to end, should be as stress free as possible. Plus if the handyman enjoys their job, the quality and attention to details will be better. The handyman's attitude can and will affect the entire job. Hopefully this will be the first question you ask. If the answer to this question is NO then do not go any further, you do not want to work with that person.
Website Directory:
1.) Google Maps Local (eg, search "handyman New Jersey) - If you look on the map you can check to see if your potential handyman has any reviews next to their business listing. 2.) AngiesList.com - This is a website where consumer post reviews of past work done by other service companies or individuals. Check your local city to see if your handyman has any negative comments. Keep in mind that one less than favorable review could not be an accurate assessment to draw a conclusion from. There is always two sides to the story; however, if there is a list of negative comments stay clear!
3.) - Contact your local Better Business Bureau to ascertain if any complaints have been filed against your potential candidate.
