{"id":24568,"date":"2025-03-24T06:00:19","date_gmt":"2025-03-24T13:00:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=24568"},"modified":"2025-03-26T10:30:59","modified_gmt":"2025-03-26T17:30:59","slug":"hiring-a-handyman","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/hiring-a-handyman\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Hire a Handyman: 10 Essential Questions to Ask"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re juggling multiple home projects, it may be faster to consider hiring a handyman rather than spending your weekends tackling them yourself. However, knowing how to hire a handyman who is reliable and skilled makes all the difference.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you&#8217;re updating your bathroom in a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/11203\/CA\/Los-Angeles\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Los Angeles, CA home<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, repairing your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.apartmentguide.com\/apartments\/Florida\/Miami\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">apartment in Miami, FL<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or fixing up your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rent.com\/illinois\/chicago-houses\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">rental in Chicago, IL<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, asking the right questions is key to finding the right professional.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-99364\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/handyman.jpg\" alt=\"How to hire a handyman: Questions to ask\" width=\"814\" height=\"543\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/handyman.jpg 814w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/handyman-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/handyman-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/handyman-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/handyman-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 814px) 100vw, 814px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What does a handyman do?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A handyman is a skilled professional who handles a wide variety of home repair and maintenance tasks. From fixing a leaky faucet to assembling furniture, they <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/unexpected-tasks-a-professional-handyman-can-tackle\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tackle many unexpected tasks<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, from small to mid-sized jobs, to save you time and effort.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nathan Baddon, CEO of highly rated general contractor service <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/biltpros.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">BiltPros<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/19701\/CA\/Temecula\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Temecula, CA<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, highlights the importance of understanding a handyman\u2019s capabilities. \u201cA good handyman will only take on jobs they are skilled at, rather than attempting everything and doing some of the work poorly. Handymen can be of great value as long as you understand their skills and limitations.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common tasks a handyman can handle include:<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/repairing-drywall-damage\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drywall repair<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and painting<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fixture installations (ceiling fans, light fixtures, faucets)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Basic carpentry and furniture assembly<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gutter cleaning and maintenance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Minor plumbing or electrical work (depending on regulations in your area)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, for larger jobs that involve structural changes, electrical rewiring, or plumbing overhauls, a general contractor may be required.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-blog-post wp-image-99365\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-tima-miroshnichenko-6474300-945x630.jpg\" alt=\"Do you need a handyman or a general contractor?\" width=\"945\" height=\"630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-tima-miroshnichenko-6474300-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-tima-miroshnichenko-6474300-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-tima-miroshnichenko-6474300-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-tima-miroshnichenko-6474300-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-tima-miroshnichenko-6474300-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-tima-miroshnichenko-6474300-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-tima-miroshnichenko-6474300.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 945px) 100vw, 945px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you need a handyman or a general contractor?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowing how to hire a handyman starts with understanding the difference between a handyman and a general contractor. This helps you choose the right professional for your project.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nathan Baddon of BiltPros explains, \u201cFor larger or more complex jobs, hiring a general contractor is always advisable to ensure the work is done properly and safely in accordance with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/definition\/building-codes\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">building code guidelines<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Key Differences<\/span><\/h3>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Factor<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Handyman<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>General Contractor<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Scope of Work<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Small repairs, maintenance, and installations<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Larger projects requiring multiple trades<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Licensing &amp; Bonding<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Usually not required but varies by state<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Must meet strict licensing requirements:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4 years of documented experience<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Passed both legal and work-related state tests<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A $25k bond and optional insurance<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Permits &amp; Compliance<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Generally not required<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Manages permits and ensures code compliance<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.apartmentguide.com\/apartments\/Arkansas\/Fort-Smith\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fort Smith, AR<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">-based <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/arcremodelingco.com\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arcadia Remodeling<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> advises, \u201cAssess the scope of your repair needs. For larger or more complex projects, hiring an established company may be a better choice, as handymen typically focus on smaller, general repairs and may have limited resources.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Checklist for hiring the right handyman<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowing how to hire a handyman also means protecting yourself from hiring the wrong one, which can lead to wasted time, money, and frustration. Follow this checklist before deciding:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"true\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Verify licensing, insurance, and bonding<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"true\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Request multiple references and online reviews<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"true\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get a written contract detailing scope, costs, and timeline<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"true\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clarify post-job cleanup and debris removal policies<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"true\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check their online presence and social media activity<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"true\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid unreasonably cheap offers; if it\u2019s too good to be true, it probably is<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">General contractor <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/amaximumconstruction.com\/avoid-handyman-scams\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Amaximum Construction<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> warns, \u201cCheck recent Google reviews; real clients leave consistent feedback, while fake reviews often come from inactive profiles. Be cautious with ultra-cheap offers from classified sites, where unreliable contractors can disappear overnight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to hire a handyman: Questions to ask<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While many handymen aren\u2019t required to have a license, it\u2019s still wise to ask about insurance and bonding. Insurance advisor <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/annuityexpertadvice.com\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shawn Plummer<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> explains, \u201cA bonded handyman has an extra layer of protection, compensating you if they fail to complete the work as promised.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aharshan Thangarasa, senior insurance broker of Toronto-based business insurance brokerage <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zensurance.com\/blog\/what-is-a-certificate-of-insurance\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zensurance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> adds, \u201cBefore hiring a handyman or independent contractor, homeowners and renters should verify their credentials and liability insurance. Ask for proof of licensing and a certificate of insurance. Always contact the insurer to confirm it\u2019s valid.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.4menearme.com\/handyman-liability-insurance\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4Menearme<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a local service comparison platform in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/510\/AR\/Arkansas-City\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arkansas City, AR<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> highlights the importance of verification. \u201cAlways ask your handyman about their specific experience related to your project type and request references from recent similar jobs. Additionally, verify if they carry proper insurance to protect yourself from liability and unexpected costs. These simple steps help ensure quality work and reliability.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-blog-post wp-image-99367\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/emmanuel-ikwuegbu-0-kl1BjvFc-unsplash-944x630.jpg\" alt=\"How do you clarify the scope of work?\" width=\"944\" height=\"630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/emmanuel-ikwuegbu-0-kl1BjvFc-unsplash-944x630.jpg 944w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/emmanuel-ikwuegbu-0-kl1BjvFc-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/emmanuel-ikwuegbu-0-kl1BjvFc-unsplash-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/emmanuel-ikwuegbu-0-kl1BjvFc-unsplash-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/emmanuel-ikwuegbu-0-kl1BjvFc-unsplash-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/emmanuel-ikwuegbu-0-kl1BjvFc-unsplash-449x300.jpg 449w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/emmanuel-ikwuegbu-0-kl1BjvFc-unsplash.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 944px) 100vw, 944px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Do you have experience with similar projects?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Experience matters, especially when hiring a handyman. Chris from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/profitdig.com\/blog\/how-much-does-a-handyman-charge\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ProfitDig<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a construction bidding platform for contractors, shares, \u201cBefore hiring a handyman, it&#8217;s crucial to ask about their experience with the specific type of work you need done. Inquire about their licensing and insurance to protect yourself from liability.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Justin Smith\u00a0from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/contractorplus.app\/handyman-software\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contractor+ App<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> echoes this. \u201cWhen hiring a handyman, I always recommend asking about their experience with similar projects, verifying licenses and insurance, and requesting references or reviews. Make sure you agree on the scope of work, timeline, and costs upfront.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Can you provide references and examples of past work?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To gauge reliability and skill, ask for references and examples of completed projects.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Real estate agent <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/tonybitar.com\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tony Bitar<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.apartmentguide.com\/apartments\/Wisconsin\/Kenosha\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kenosha, WI<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> suggests, \u201cIn our community, I always recommend homeowners and renters get 2-3 references, check online reviews, and verify how long a handyman or company has been in business. Experience and reputation matter when it comes to quality work.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Roger Howroyd from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rent.com\/california\/san-francisco-houses\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">San Francisco, CA<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">-based <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/invoicefly.com\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Invoice Fly<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, an invoicing platform for home services agrees, saying, \u201cAlways ask for references from previous clients and request to see examples of similar work they&#8217;ve completed to verify their skill level and reliability.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-blog-post wp-image-99371\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-kseniachernaya-5691544-944x630.jpg\" alt=\" Can you provide references and examples of past work?\" width=\"944\" height=\"630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-kseniachernaya-5691544-944x630.jpg 944w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-kseniachernaya-5691544-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-kseniachernaya-5691544-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-kseniachernaya-5691544-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-kseniachernaya-5691544-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-kseniachernaya-5691544-449x300.jpg 449w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-kseniachernaya-5691544.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 944px) 100vw, 944px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. How do you clarify the scope of work?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before hiring a handyman, defining the scope of work is essential to avoid misunderstandings and ensure the project runs smoothly.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Matt of <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/tobackbuilders.com\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Toback Builders<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> located in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/5388\/DE\/Dewey-Beach\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dewey Beach, DE<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> emphasizes, \u201cClearly define what tasks need to be completed and communicate them upfront. Provide as much detail as possible, so the handyman can give an accurate estimate and ensure they have the right tools and expertise for the job.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Steven Odorisio of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/trustworkhome.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trustwork Home Renovations and Repairs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/10652\/CO\/Lafayette\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lafayette, CO<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> also stresses the importance of having a written agreement. \u201cAlways get a written contract detailing the work, cost, schedule, and warranty. It holds the contractor accountable and ensures clear expectations. From small repairs to renovations, we provide detailed contracts for peace of mind.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. How do you handle payments?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Discussing payment structure upfront prevents misunderstandings. Roger Howroyd from Invoice Fly advises. \u201cDiscuss payment structure upfront, including whether they charge hourly or by project, and get a detailed written estimate that covers materials, labor, and a realistic timeline for completion.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Johan Blacksmith from <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/spartanburghandymanupstate.com\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spartanburg Handyman Upstate<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, located in <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/v\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Columbus, NC<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, outlines their approach. \u201cOur pricing is based on the scope of the project, any special permits necessary, materials needed, and the time required to complete the job. We offer free estimates to give you a clear idea of the costs involved.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-blog-post wp-image-99366\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-ivan-samkov-4491881-945x630.jpg\" alt=\"Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?\" width=\"945\" height=\"630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-ivan-samkov-4491881-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-ivan-samkov-4491881-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-ivan-samkov-4491881-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-ivan-samkov-4491881-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-ivan-samkov-4491881-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-ivan-samkov-4491881-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-ivan-samkov-4491881.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 945px) 100vw, 945px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6. Do you offer a warranty or guarantee?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A reliable handyman should stand behind their work. Mike from <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/emeraldcityrepairs.com\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emerald City Repairs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.apartmentguide.com\/apartments\/Washington\/White-Center\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">White Center, WA<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> stresses, \u201cInquire about their warranty policy; reliable professionals stand behind their work and offer a guarantee on labor.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Professional handyman and owner, Phil of <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/philshomeservices.com\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Phil\u2019s Home Services<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/16163\/WA\/Seattle\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seattle, WA<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, offers a 1-year labor warranty, explaining, \u201cAt Phil\u2019s Home Services, I provide a 1-year warranty on labor, while materials are the homeowner\u2019s responsibility.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7. How do you handle unexpected changes?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Projects rarely go 100% as planned, so it\u2019s essential to ask how changes will be handled. Phil suggests, \u201cBefore hiring a handyman, ask how unexpected changes are handled. Projects don\u2019t always go as planned. It\u2019s important to ask how the handyman communicates unexpected repairs or changes and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-to-do-when-contractor-doesnt-finish-job\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">what to do when the job isn\u2019t finished<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8. What is your policy on cleanup and debris removal?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowing how to hire a handyman involves clarifying details like post-job cleanup and debris removal.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Phil highlights, \u201cBefore hiring a handyman, ask how they handle post-job cleanup and debris removal. Some handymen include cleanup as part of their service, ensuring the workspace is left neat, while others expect the homeowner to handle it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-blog-post wp-image-99370\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-cottonbro-6566822-945x630.jpg\" alt=\"What is your policy on cleanup and debris removal?\" width=\"945\" height=\"630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-cottonbro-6566822-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-cottonbro-6566822-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-cottonbro-6566822-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-cottonbro-6566822-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-cottonbro-6566822-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-cottonbro-6566822-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-cottonbro-6566822.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 945px) 100vw, 945px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9. Do you markup materials, or can I buy them myself?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Material sourcing is another important consideration. Phil also explains, \u201cSome handymen charge a markup on materials they purchase to cover the time and effort of sourcing, transporting, and selecting quality supplies, while others allow homeowners to buy materials themselves to avoid additional costs.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding this upfront prevents surprises on the final bill.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10. How many projects do you take on at once?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A handyman who takes on too many projects may not give yours the attention it needs. Natalia Herrera from <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/kataloxconstruction.com\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Katalox Construction<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> located in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rent.com\/washington\/seattle-houses\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\">Seattle<\/a><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, WA<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> recommends asking, \u201cWhat is your projected timeline for starting and finishing the project? How many projects can you handle simultaneously? This helps manage workload and ensures your project avoids delays.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-blog-post wp-image-99368\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-rdne-8292797-945x630.jpg\" alt=\"Ensuring a smooth experience when hiring a handyman\" width=\"945\" height=\"630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-rdne-8292797-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-rdne-8292797-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-rdne-8292797-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-rdne-8292797-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-rdne-8292797-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-rdne-8292797-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-rdne-8292797.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 945px) 100vw, 945px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ensuring a smooth experience when hiring a handyman<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By asking the right questions, you can protect yourself from unexpected costs, delays, and poor workmanship. Learning how to hire a handyman helps you avoid one that swindles you and makes you wonder if you should ever <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/should-you-hire-a-contractor-or-do-it-yourself\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hire a contractor or do it yourself<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> again.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you\u2019re thinking about hiring someone for a project in your forever home, or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/hire-a-handyman-when-selling-your-house\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hiring a handyman when selling your house<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, being informed is the key to a successful outcome.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Before hiring a handyman, be sure you&#8217;re satisfied with the answers to these questions. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":817,"featured_media":99369,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"default","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center 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