We’ve all been there – we need something fixed or replaced. Do we try to fix it ourselves, call a handyman or a contractor? They all have their advantages. In reality, the decision boils down to the size and details of the job.
A quick DIY, fix-it, or upgrade project, such as replacing the decorative knobs on your cabinets, can be quickly accomplished without any additional help needed. More complicated projects such as electrical or plumbing-related issues most likely will require hiring a handyman. They’re considered “jacks of all trades” and can usually tackle just about any small job quickly and efficiently. Large projects involving demolitions or additions, or long-term projects, would most likely be too involved for a handyman and would require a licensed contractor. In that case, a contractor and his crew will get the job done faster.
On the average, most of us run into DIY or handyman-related projects or repairs more often than large-involved projects. In fact, handymen are enjoying a boom in business these days due to the fact that the baby boomer generation is now at the age where they prefer not to do as many fix-it jobs on their own, especially those that involve ladders! This is where handymen shine. Yes, the first impulse might be to hire a contractor, but look at it this way – contractors are busy professionals and since they focus on more detailed or long-term jobs, they will most likely not be available for smaller jobs.
Handymen, on the other hand, are the natural choice for a long list of fix-it projects.
Before you call a handyman, there are a few things you can do to streamline the fix-it process. First and foremost, have a detailed description of the problem at hand. Generalizations won’t help with getting true price and time estimates. For example, don’t just say “my washing machine doesn’t work.” That’s too vague of a description for the handyman to know anything about the job! Instead, you should give him a description of the problem. Like, “My washer goes through the wash and rinse cycles, but won’t enter the spin cycle.” Now he’ll have an idea of what the problem might be.
Something else to consider before you hire a handyman, is to determine if he has his own tools and insurance. Don’t lend him your tools as that is a liability that could open you up to some large expenses if he gets injured using your tools. Another tip when hiring a handyman is to do the prep work yourself. That could include moving any obstacles (items under the sink, etc.) to clear the workspace. And if you have pets, do place them in another area.
Also, consider grouping some of your fix it projects together. If you have 3 or 4 (or more) small projects that aren’t time consuming, it will be worth your while to bundle them together when you talk to the handyman. It makes more sense to have him come to your home or business for a half, or even a whole day or two, to do a group of projects. It will end up costing you less than if you have him come out multiple times and it’s more worth the handyman’s time to schedule the projects together.
Next time you need something fixed, why not give our handyman a call?