5 Things to Ask Before Hiring a Handyman (And One You Should Never Skip)
Your neighborhood, sorted.
Sarah Jenkins
October 24, 2023
The Costly Mistakes Most Homeowners Make
We've all been there: a leaky faucet or a squeaky door drives you crazy, so you Google "handyman near me." You pick the first name with a cheap price tag, only to realize three days later that the job was half-baked or worse — they never showed up.
Finding reliable help shouldn't require a PhD in vetting. Most homeowners make the same three mistakes: skipping the background check, ignoring reviews, and assuming "handyman" means they can do plumbing, electrical, and roofing. It doesn't. Let's fix that.
The 5 Questions You Must Ask
1. Do you carry liability insurance?
If a pro accidentally breaks your antique vase or causes water damage to your walls, you want them covered. A legitimate pro carries both general liability and workers' comp insurance. Never assume this is included.
2. Can you provide references from recent jobs?
Don't just ask for a generic LinkedIn or Google review. Ask for a phone number or email of a homeowner they worked with in the last 3 months. A great review on a site they control doesn't mean much; a homeowner's word does.
3. What is your rate structure?
Some pros charge hourly with a "minimum call-out fee." Others charge flat rates. Make sure you understand if the rate changes based on the time of day (e.g., evening rates) or if there's a travel fee included.
4. Are you licensed for the specific work?
A general handyman license allows for minor repairs, but if you need electrical or plumbing work, you need a certified journeyman. Ask for proof of certification or check your local state licensing board website.
5. What is your cancellation policy?
Life happens. If you need to reschedule, how much notice do you need? Is there a cancellation fee? Knowing this upfront prevents awkward conversations and unexpected charges later.
The One Thing to Never Skip
Verifying Insurance
Never hire a handyman without confirming they have valid insurance. If they break your property or get injured on your job site, you could be held legally liable. Ask for the policy number and carrier name, then call the carrier to verify it's active. If they hesitate or say "it's not necessary," walk away. It's not worth the risk.
Skip the Vetting. We've Already Done It.
At Valla, verifying insurance, checking references, and confirming licenses are just the minimum. Our pros are background-checked, reviewed by neighbors, and skilled in their trade. You focus on the job; we handle the trust.
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