How to Choose the Right Handyman

You've decided, today's the day you're tackling your to-do list of work.

But you quickly realise that your toolbox consists of only a multi-head screwdriver in the bottom of a drawer. And that's not counting the painful memory of your last renovation attempt that comes back to haunt you… poor door, it hadn't done anything to deserve that… it didn't!

Not letting yourself be discouraged, you have a brilliant idea: hire a handyman.

Sitting in front of your computer, you type « handyman » into a search engine and « BAM » they're all there… you're really too clever. But how can you be sure to choose « THE » right one who will be available, competent, punctual, at a reasonable price and offering a warranty on his work?

Here are the 5 golden rules to follow when it's time to choose your handyman.

Does he have references you can (read "must") check?

Anyone with a hammer in hand can claim to be a handyman. So, I suggest you be very careful, because you must protect your biggest investment, your home or condo. Check if he can provide you with references from satisfied customers. How many years has he been in business? Does he have a website where you can see his business address and a phone number other than his cell phone? What are his latest projects and does he have photos to back it up?

Beware of a price that's too good to be true

You know that transportation costs, tools, insurance and permits are amounts that add up. Plus, expertise has a price. So, if a handyman offers you a price lower than average, you need to be on your guard. Too often, I've seen jobs abandoned by people hired who didn't have the required skills, or because they'd found a more lucrative opportunity with another client.

Is he legitimate and well protected?

Know that the popular belief that small jobs are not regulated is completely false. Handymen must follow the same laws as other renovation businesses. They must have a permit from Quebec's Building Board (Régie du bâtiment du Québec – RBQ).

They must also have liability insurance that protects you in case of a problem. By simply asking for their RBQ number (which you can easily verify on the Building Board's website), you'll be able to easily eliminate the amateur « handy guys » who aren't serious about this trade.

Never pay everything upfront and demand guarantees

The best guarantee you'll get satisfaction all the way through is to not pay for the work in advance. I suggest that at the start of the project, only materials are reimbursed. Then, 50% of labour payable at mid-point and finally the other 50% at the end of the work, once you've approved the job. Stay firm, they'll demand other conditions with very good explanations, but YOU are the boss and it's YOUR money.

A handyman cannot and should not do everything. A good handyman is a generalist

So, if your handyman tells you he can do everything, no matter how big the task, take to your heels, because problems will arrive quickly. Including electrical and plumbing work, but also large-scale projects like roofing, replacing multiple windows… so, be very careful.

Now you can relax...

The best part is that in addition to having saved time by getting the services of a competent handyman who offers guarantees, if you've done your research well and despite everything, you're not fully satisfied, you'll be able to demand better from him. Which should allow you, in the end, to get services that meet your expectations.

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