10 Questions to Ask a Handyman Before You Hire Them
Before you let anyone into your home, a few questions will tell you a lot. Here are the ten I'd ask, why each matters, and my own answers, because I think every handyman should be willing to answer them in writing.
1. Are you insured?
Why it matters: if someone gets hurt or something gets damaged, insurance protects you. Ask to see proof, not just a yes.
My answer: Yes. My certificate of insurance is online, and anyone can view it anytime.
2. How much experience do you have?
Why it matters: experience means fewer surprises and faster work.
My answer: I've worked as a contractor for private family estates, as a building engineer at The Austonian, and as a construction manager for Perry Homes. I've been doing this work since 2014.
3. Can I see reviews or examples of your work?
Why it matters: past customers are the most honest reference.
My answer: You can read my reviews on Google, and I'm glad to send photos of similar jobs.
4. How do you handle estimates?
Why it matters: a vague number is how surprise bills happen.
My answer: Estimates are free. For anything beyond a simple job, I'd rather see it in person before giving a number, so the number holds.
5. Who will actually do the work?
Why it matters: you should know who's in your home.
My answer: Me. I run a one-person business, so the person you talk to is the person who shows up.
6. How and when do I pay?
Why it matters: be careful with anyone who wants full payment before starting.
My answer: Cash, card, Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App. I don't accept checks.
7. What happens if the job turns out bigger than expected?
Why it matters: opening a wall can reveal surprises.
My answer: I stop and tell you what I found and what it will cost before doing anything extra. Nothing gets added without your OK.
8. Do you clean up after yourself?
Why it matters: a mess left behind says a lot about the work you can't see.
My answer: Yes. I leave the work area the way I found it, and I take the old parts and packaging with me.
9. Do you guarantee your work?
Why it matters: if something fails a week later, you want to know who fixes it.
My answer: I guarantee my work, and I'll keep working with you until we're both satisfied.
10. How will we communicate?
Why it matters: most bad experiences with contractors come down to not hearing back.
My answer: Text is easiest. You'll hear from me when I'm on my way, and I'll tell you if anything changes.
One more thing
I'm also happy to teach you how to handle simple maintenance yourself. I'd rather be the person you call for the jobs that really need a pro than the one you call for a light bulb.
Need a hand with this? I'm Austin, and I run Austin's Handyman Services. I'm insured and I work across greater Austin, including a lot of downtown condo buildings.
Related: About Austin