A good handyman is one of the most useful numbers to have in your phone. Finding one takes a bit of care, because the title covers everyone from a skilled carpenter to someone who bought a drill last month.
Start with your list
Write down every job, however small. A clear list gets you a more accurate quote and lets the handyman bring the right tools and fixings. It also tells you early whether one person can do it all.
Know what a handyman should not do
In Ontario, electrical work for hire must be done by a Licensed Electrical Contractor, and gas work by a certified gas technician. Work on main plumbing lines belongs with a licensed plumber. A handyman who offers to do those anyway is telling you something about how they work.
Questions worth asking
- Have you done this particular job before?
- Do you charge by the hour or by the job? Is there a minimum?
- Who supplies the materials?
- Do you carry liability insurance?
- How long will it take, and when can you start?
How to read the quote
It should be in writing and it should list the jobs. Check whether materials and HST are included. An hourly rate is fine for a mixed list of small jobs, as long as you also get an estimate of the hours. For one defined job, a fixed price is easier on both sides.
Red flags
- Cash only, with no receipt.
- No written quote.
- Vague answers about insurance.
- Cannot tell you when they will arrive or how long the job will take.
- Wants full payment before starting.
Or let us find one for you
ServiceTo matches your list with a vetted local handyman. Every provider is screened and background-checked before joining, and you agree the price and the time before any work starts. See what our handyman service covers, or send your list now.