are hand men typically 'insured' and 'certified'?

Question

I'm searching for a handyman...what should I look for?

Matthew Paul · Answer

The difference between a handyman and a contractor is the price . Generally a contractor is a legit business with all the insurances and a handyman is chuck in a truck looking to make some cash

Matthew Paul · Answer

On the flip side , I was in Home depot this morning and a guy asked me if I was a contractor . I told him "Yes" . He asked if I was looking for work  and I told him " No not really "   Then he says he will pay $20.00 an hour . And I looked at him and told the guy " Thats a no for sure " .

Joe Splitrock · Answer

@Reggie Maggard there is a wide variety out there. I only use handymen that are insured that I can send a 1099 to. You will find cheap handymen that are not insured and many don't even claim their income on taxes, so don't even understand what a 1099 is. I just prefer to keep it all legit, but it costs a few extra bucks.

Many investors will just go on Craigslist and hire the cheapest person they can find. This can be a huge mistake. I have seen handymen do significant damage. I had one person how got paint all over my woodwork. My parents hired a guy who got half way done with a job and told them, "it is too hard, I can't finish this".

Best situation is get referrals. Realtors are a good source for handyman referrals or other investors.

Bleu T. · Answer

In my opinion:

You want someone with years of residential carpentry experience, who wanted to be their own boss.

Meet them in person, take notice of their truck and tool set-up. Ask them questions about your house, and let them talk (Gauge their knowledge)  Then ask for the addresses of their last three projects. (follow up on those)

If they hesitate, find someone else.

Wayne Brooks · Answer

No, they are not....that’s why they are “cheaper”....if all goes well.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

In my area, a licensed/insured Handyman is essentially a contractor that works independently. They may do small jobs like replacing a window or installing new vinyl in a bathroom but they'll charge the same price you would pay any contractor. Your licensing board can verify whether someone is licensed or not.

A real handyman is usually half the cost (or less) but you really have to vet them to make sure they're reliable. There are some fantastic contractors that just want a flexible schedule and the ability to work for themselves. They can be worth their weight in gold!

Taylor Pelzel · Answer

Download the "nextdoor" app on your phone. You can find recommended handymen who have good, local, proven referrals. I would go this route before googling "local handyman"

Steven Stohlman · Answer

Like any service, there are good providers and bad.I agree with @Bleu Turrell  In watching what condition their truck is in and what kind of tools they use are good indicators. The Handyman should be insured, you can ask who there agent is and give them a call to verify.

Ask around for recommendations from friends and family, ask around at Home Depot or any supply house.

Good luck.

Cody L. · Answer

No. They’re not. For most work a simple handyman will do

are hand men typically 'insured' and 'certified'?

Most Popular Reply