A good handyman saves you time on the punch list — mounting TVs, fixing doors, small drywall patches, and odds-and-ends that don’t need a specialty crew. Use these questions to confirm they’re the right fit for your jobs, covered by insurance, and clear about what they will and won’t touch.
Why it matters: Handymen excel at small, varied repairs. Licensed electrical, gas, structural, or major plumbing work often needs a specialty contractor. A clear “I don’t do X” answer is a green flag; someone who claims every trade may be overreaching.
Why it matters: Rules vary widely. Some cities allow unlicensed handyman work under a dollar or scope threshold; others require registration. Match their credentials to your job list — especially if any item involves electrical panels, water heaters, or load-bearing changes.
Why it matters: Accidents happen on ladders and with power tools. Ask for a certificate of insurance and confirm it is current. If a helper gets hurt or a wall is damaged, you want coverage that isn’t only “trust me.”
Why it matters: Small jobs often carry a trip or minimum charge. Get the hourly rate, overtime rules, and whether materials markups are included. Flat quotes for a punch list make comparison easier than open-ended hourly with no cap.
Why it matters: Vague “I’ll fix whatever I see” arrangements invite scope creep and sticker shock. A written punch list with prices (or a not-to-exceed amount) keeps both of you honest.
Why it matters: Some handymen prefer to buy and mark up; others use what you provide. Agree on brand/grade for hardware, paint, and fasteners, and ask for receipts if they purchase on your behalf.
Why it matters: Mounting a heavy TV or repairing a sticking exterior door is different from hanging shelves. References for comparable jobs help you judge craftsmanship, punctuality, and cleanup.
Why it matters: Handymen often juggle multiple clients. Knowing whether they batch your list into one day or stretch it across weeks helps you plan access, pets, and work-from-home quiet hours.
Why it matters: Even small work should come with a workmanship assurance (often 30–90 days). Ask how they prefer you report issues and whether labor on a callback is free if the original fix failed.
Why it matters: Drop cloths, vacuuming drywall dust, and hauling debris are part of a professional visit. Clarify whether disposal fees are extra and whether they’ll leave materials labeled for any unfinished items.
Why it matters: Opening a wall can reveal wiring or water damage. Require a stop-and-call process with a price for the extra work before they proceed — especially when the fix crosses into licensed-trade territory.