| A handyman is paid to fix various issues that | | | | portion of projects simply due to word of mouth |
| arise around the house. Usually these jobs are | | | | advertising. Discuss the job with neighbors, friends |
| smaller like fixing a leak or installing an electrical | | | | and family for recommendations. |
| outlet. They are generally a much more | | | | Asking for a Written Estimate |
| economical choice over a plumber or electrician. | | | | Ask for a written estimate that includes the time |
| The skills of a handyman are often diverse, but | | | | of completion and the overall price. Verbal |
| different professionals have different areas of | | | | estimates can change at any time as the |
| expertise. | | | | handyman may significantly change the price after |
| Consequently there are a few actions to take | | | | they've started the work. Its best to know from |
| when hiring an expert for any type of job | | | | the beginning the cost and any factors that may |
| including: | | | | affect the price. |
| Making a list | | | | Getting a Contract in Writing |
| Obtaining references | | | | The final action to take during the hiring process is |
| Asking for a written estimate | | | | to get the final contract in writing. This protects |
| Getting a contract in writing | | | | you in case a contract dispute arises and is |
| Making a List | | | | permissible in court. This also shows that the |
| If you have more than one area of the house | | | | expert is trustworthy. Those not willing to put the |
| that needs to be fixed, it's best to make a | | | | contract in writing should not be trusted; so |
| detailed list outlining the issues. Do not assume all | | | | simply find a different contractor. Also always |
| are capable of all jobs. Keep in mind that the | | | | ensure they have liability insurance in the case |
| wider range of skills, the more expensive they will | | | | that damage occurs. |
| be. If there's a long list of projects to complete, | | | | A handyman can complete many small tasks |
| then a professional with a range of skills is the | | | | around the house at a much more affordable |
| best choice. For a single job, find one that | | | | price than a licensed contractor. Checking |
| specializes in that particular field. | | | | references and inquiring around the community will |
| Obtaining References | | | | ensure trust and comfort. Always acquire a |
| It cannot be stressed enough how important it is | | | | written estimate and contract before proceeding |
| to find references. There are numerous labor | | | | with any work. There are plenty of highly-skilled, |
| stories of projects going horribly wrong to theft. | | | | trustworthy professionals available; you just need |
| The best way to find a good worker is through | | | | to conduct some research to find them. |
| direct referrals. Many experts have a good | | | | |