Ottawa Handyman: 4 Essential Questions To Ask Before Hiring

There are many reasons someone may search for a “handyman near me.” Handymen are notoriously skilled individuals, capable of performing a variety of construction and installation tasks. Those individuals with the right qualifications can perform beautiful work that will inevitably improve the value and quality of your home. However, not all handymen are equal. 

Before you hire any “professional,” it is essential that you review their qualifications. Remember, you are quite literally opening up your home to these people, putting you and your house in a vulnerable position. Therefore, before you hire any professional to work on your house, it is vital to ask them a few clarifying questions. 

1. Do You Have Experience With This Type of Work?

While an Ottawa handyman might be skilled in several areas of installation or construction, they are likely not equally adept in all areas. Before hiring any professional, you will want to ask about their specific experience performing the task you are requesting. For example, if you need a door installed, ask the individual how many, if any, doors they have installed in the past.

Also, do not be afraid to ask for proof. Any professional should have a list of references they can supply on-demand for past projects that are similar to what you are asking. After all, you called and scheduled a meeting, so the professional likely has some idea as to what you are asking about.

2. Do You Use a Flat or Hourly Rate?

Payment structures are variable. Some handymen prefer an hourly rate, while others prefer the simplicity of a flat fee. It is challenging to determine which fee structure is best for the client because so much depends on the job. However, a customer is less likely to be taken advantage of with a flat rate contractor than with an hourly one. 

Still, you can likely compare rates or fee structures based on projects. Most contractors or handypersons can provide you with an estimate for task completion, making it reasonably easy to compare apples to apples.

3. Does Your Rate Include Materials?

While labour is likely the bulk of your expenses, materials are nothing to ignore. The material costs for different jobs can be pretty substantial, and if they are not included within the original estimate, a bid can outshine or look out of place among the others.

Unnaturally low bids often beg the question of quality. However, if a handyman does not include materials in their bid, you may overlook a quality contractor, assuming their work is subpar.

More than anything, you want to ask about materials as a budgeting necessity. If you hire someone thinking materials are included in the original bid when they are not, you are in for a rude and frustrating awakening.

4. Are You Licensed and Insured for This Type of Work?

Too many handymen are overzealous and overconfident; they want to earn money and think they are more capable than they are. The potential ego and attitude can lead to trouble, especially if they apply for work with little to no experience in the specific tasks.

Most professionals are licensed and insured for specific construction tasks. If they perform work outside of the specifications for their license or insurance, they are not protected, and neither is the homeowner. You always need to ask about the experience and qualifications of a handyman or contractor.

What projects have been on your back burner? Are you ready to invest in that kitchen remodel or another project? Contact Handyman Connection to find and work with experienced professionals with years of experience and all appropriate qualifications.