Hiring and estimates

Questions to Ask a Handyman Before You Hire

Ten fair, simple questions that help you judge any handyman before you let them start work on your home.

Letting someone work in your home takes trust. A few simple questions to ask a handyman up front can tell you a lot about who you're hiring. These work for any handyman, including us.

1. Are you insured?

This is the first question for a reason. If a ladder slips and dents your siding, or someone gets hurt on your property, insurance helps cover it. Without it, you could be left holding the bill.

It's fair to ask for a certificate of insurance. A professional won't be bothered by the question.

2. Will I get a written estimate?

A verbal number is easy to misremember on both sides. A written estimate should list what's being done, where, what materials are included and when payment is due. Our guide on getting an accurate handyman estimate explains what a good one includes.

3. Who will actually do the work?

Some handymen work alone. Some have a helper or a small crew. Some send the job out to others. It's fine either way, but you should know who's coming to your house.

4. How do you handle surprises?

Repair work sometimes uncovers more than expected, like rot behind trim or water damage under a floor. Ask what happens then. A good answer is: "We stop, show you, explain the options and get your OK before doing more."

5. What's not included?

Ask directly about:

• Materials and who buys them
• Primer and paint for patches
• Hauling away old parts and debris
• Moving furniture
• Cleanup at the end of each day

Clear answers now prevent hard feelings later.

6. How and when do I pay?

Payment terms vary. Some jobs need a deposit to cover materials. Others are paid when the work is done. Get it in writing, and be wary of anyone who wants full payment before starting.

7. When can you start, and how long will it take?

A rough timeline helps you plan. Weather can push back outdoor work, so ask how rain days are handled for painting, deck or yard jobs.

8. What won't you take on?

This one tells you a lot. In Georgia, electrical, plumbing and HVAC work need state-licensed pros. A trustworthy handyman will be clear about where their work stops, such as swapping a light fixture versus running new wiring. If someone says yes to everything, think twice. Our guide on handyman vs. contractor explains where the lines usually fall.

9. Can I see photos or reviews of past work?

Online reviews give you a feel for how someone treats customers. Look at how they respond to problems, not just the star rating. Photos of similar work can help, too.

10. How do we stay in touch?

Ask whether calling or texting works best, and what hours they're reachable. Knowing how to reach someone, and that they'll answer, takes a lot of stress out of a project.

Red flags to watch for

• No written estimate, or one that's vague
• Pressure to decide on the spot
• Can't or won't confirm insurance
• Offers to do licensed trade work without a license
• Wants full payment before any work begins
• Hard to reach before the job even starts

Our answers

Since we're asking you to ask, here's where we stand. We're a small, family-owned business in Hogansville. We're insured. Estimates are free. We work Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, and you can call or text. We do fixture-level plumbing and electrical work and tell you plainly when a job needs a licensed electrician, plumber or roofer. Our customers have given us 5.0 stars on Google.

We handle general home repairs, drywall repair, painting, decks and porches, and lawn care.

Ready to ask us?

Call or text (706) 594-5049 with your questions, or use our free estimate form. Send a photo of the job and we'll give you a straight answer and a free estimate.