Booking the best pro for your project is all in asking the right questions
 - Derek Rose.png?impolicy=thumbnail)
Finding a handyman starts with asking friends and neighbors for recommendations, then comparing at least three pros to review their skills and pricing.
Handyman services cost $400 on average, with hourly rates from $50 to $150 and daily rates from $350 to $600 for your project.
You need a detailed project list before getting quotes, so your handyman can provide accurate pricing and confirm they have the right skills.
Hiring a local handyman professional keeps your home projects on track with reliable help for repairs, installations, and the specialized skills your to-do list requires.
Whether you need someone to powerwash your patio or swap out a light fixture, make sure your handyperson has the relevant experience to get the job done. Learn more about what you need to know when hiring, as well as interview questions for your handyperson prospects.
Word-of-mouth is often the best way to find a skilled handyperson. Ask your family, friends, and neighbors for recommendations, especially if they’ve hired a handyperson recently. You can also search online for a local handyperson and compare reviews. Aim to talk with and get quotes from at least three different contractors so you can compare skill sets, pricing, and quotes.
Preparing a to-do list or project list can help you identify what handyperson skills you are looking for.
Be as specific as possible about the jobs you’d like the handyperson to tackle. These types of pros can take on everything from tightening a leaky faucet to cleaning your gutters to repairing a door. They can also mount a TV, hang artwork, or replace a light fixture.
Having all the details ready ensures your pro can give you an accurate quote and has the skills to do the job. A thorough list also helps you maximize your handyperson’s time at your home. Better to tackle your entire vision board than leave a single forgotten project undone.
Have a to-do list of all the stuff you've been putting off so your handyperson can complete it in one visit, like the light fixture or weatherstripping you've been meaning to change. This way you'll make the most of your time if your handyperson charges a flat rate.
Many handypeople are skilled in various tasks but may not have a license for specialized trades like electrical or plumbing work. If your project involves a specialty trade, check with your local licensing agency to see if the contractor has the right license.
Ask potential contractors if you can speak to a few clients who can vouch for their work. Be sure to check out the contractor’s local reviews online.
Ask the following questions to help ensure you have the right contractor for the job:
How long have you been a handyperson?
Do you have any specialized skills or training?
Do you have a general contractor license or a handyperson certification?
Will you provide a written estimate and contract?
Do you have any questions about the projects on my list?
What’s the most common feedback you hear from your clients?
Before you sign a contract, interview your handyperson and ensure you’ve seen a background check.
Talk with at least three contractors to find one you feel comfortable with. After all, you’ll be working closely with them in your home. Get an idea of their communication style, trustworthiness, and experience level. Comparing quotes can also help you determine what you can get done on your budget.
Your contractor should be able to provide you with a background check. This is an important step, so you and your family feel at ease with getting the project started.
Your handyperson should offer you a contract that details the project scope, cost, payment terms, and timeline, as well as any material or supply costs. A signed contract will keep you and your pro on the same page and protect you and give you leverage should something go wrong.
I am very pleased with the quality of work. My handyman was very friendly, professional, and extremely knowledgeable. He communicated very well and took the time to explain to me exactly what he was going to do and how he was going to do it. He took great care and pride to do the job right. He was a real pleasure to work with. He cleaned up after himself and made sure that everything was put back the way he found it. His price was very fair and I even gave him a little more because I thought he deserved it. I will definitely be using this pro's services for all projects in the future.
— Julio R., Hayward, CA
Take notes and snap a few photos to ensure you have documentation if there are any issues. Write down details such as the number of hours the pro worked and whether the quality matches what you agreed to in the contract.
If you notice any warning signs with your contractor, address them sooner than later. Signs you shouldn't hire a contractor may include:
No reviews or references
Offers a quote that’s much higher or lower than other bids
Won't sign a contract
Asks to be paid in cash
Wants a large down payment (such as over 15% of the total cost)
Does low-quality work
Doesn’t show up when they say they will
Before making the final payment to your handyperson, check out the work from top to bottom. If you have concerns about the quality, discuss them with your handyperson and refer to your contract if needed. Once you feel satisfied with the work, make your final payment. You can also leave an online review to help other homeowners when they’re looking for a handyperson.
On average, hiring a handyperson costs $400. This is a loose estimate, however, as some projects are significantly cheaper or more expensive than that. A handyperson typically charges an hourly rate of $50 to $150. Some handypeople charge per full day, especially for larger projects, with an average daily rate of $350 to $600. Neither of those figures includes the cost of materials. It’s also common for a handyperson to have a minimum fee or number of hours they’ll work before agreeing to a project; a standard minimum fee ranges between $50 and $200.
Depending on the complexity of a task, you might consider doing it yourself instead of hiring a local handyperson. The DIY route is a great way to save money since you only pay for materials and eliminate the cost of labor, but it comes with potential downsides, too. Hiring a handyperson saves you a lot of hassle, and, most importantly, it ensures the job is done correctly. We recommend hiring a pro if you’re unsure you can do the job yourself; otherwise, you might pay more down the line for repairs.
Excellent, Prompt, Courteous Service!!! They were super friendly and quite personable. I felt very comfortable with the gentlemen that did the installation. They installed it exactly where I asked them to and they did an excellent job!! I loved their service so much.
Tether HouseAce Fireplace Services' chimney sweep service is truly exceptional. They used advanced technology to ensure a thorough cleaning process, and my chimney has never looked better. I highly recommend their services.
Ace Fireplace ServicesBinion and Alex did such a good job. Fast, fair, efficient. Would def use them again. Best experience Iâ ve had in moving - someone should give them a raise. Will undoubtedly recommend this service.
All My Sons Moving & StorageGreat customer service. The owner Ilia was wonderful to work with. Would definitely recommend this company.
Window Depot USA of Central OhioI definitely recommend Ramonaâ s cleaning service! I have booked services with her many times and she arrives on time, ready to work and provides a great service.
Your Cleaning Solutions LLCExcellent experience! Left my place looking great. Friendly customer service too. Would recommend!
Very professional and great customer service! I couldn’t be happier with the work I received, and even referred this business to my family and friends!
All Star Paving and SealingWebb â s was priced well, flexible on scheduling, great with communication, and detailed in their work. Iâ ll definitely use their services again.
Webbs Pressure and Paint LLCThey’ve been great to work with. All of my clients that have used them have nothing but good things to say about the experience. Quick responses and fast service. They’re a trustworthy team!
Total Home RoofingMary cleaning service does an amazing job cleaning my home. They go over and beyond the cleaning services that I have had in the past. They are very punctual and thorough with cleaning my home, I’m extremely happy with the service they provide and I highly recommend them.
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Wondering about the cost to hire a handyman? Discover prices, key cost factors, and money-saving tips to help you plan your next home project.
Looking to add a personal touch or some patriotic flair to your property? Learn about flagpole installation costs and how to budget appropriately.
If you’re not keen on spending your afternoon assembling flat-pack furniture, bring in the professionals. How much does furniture assembly cost? It can be shockingly affordable.
Hiring a contractor can be a daunting task for homeowners, but due diligence will ensure you and your investment stay protected. Verify licenses, insurance, and bonding before you hire, but don’t stop there. Find out all the steps to take here.
Have a home repair problem? A highly rated handyman service shares 4 easy DIY tricks you can try yourself before spending money on a handyman service.
Show your appreciation to those in service industries, like contractors and house cleaners, this holiday season. This tipping guide can help you decide who and how much to tip.
