Hiring a handyman is not easy, and many people have had unpleasant experiences trying to do so. They don’t show up, they don’t return calls, they say they can do the work but then do a poor job.

In order to avoid this type of disappointment, here’s some advice. Before hiring any handyman, ask him or her these questions:

  1. How many years have they been in business?
  2. How do they price their work? Hourly? Per job?
  3. Do they give free estimates?
  4. Do they carry liability insurance? If not, remember that you are responsible for any medical expenses and possibly more if they’re injured while working for you!
  5. Finally, request a detailed description of the work AND cost in writing, and remember that even though most handymen have a variety of skills, some jobs are best left to specialists.
Editorial Contributors
avatar for Danny Lipford

Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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