Top 10 questions to ask when looking for a handyman.
A good handyman can be an invaluable asset to any home or business owner, real estate agent, strata management company or maintenance…
- Firstly, work out what you need help with and make a list.
- Ascertain their skillset. This is easily done by asking the simple question “is this something that you could do?”
- Are you local? Sounds too simple but many are not. They just place ads and could be in another city or state.
- Do you have an ABN? You want to know if they are a real business.
- Are you insured? Again, simple but this is for your protection.
- Ask about their experience. Some are very skilled and experienced. Others are not. Some will have a trade or a multiple trade background.
- Are you the person who will be doing the work? Some will have employees. Others will contract the work out. It’s important to know who you’re dealing with.
- What is your availability like? If he’s booked out for weeks or months, it may not work for your situation.
- When would you like to come and have a look? This is not always a requirement but for some jobs it’s very important.
- How do you charge? It’s not always about how much, but there needs to be clarity about the process. Are they quoting is for the whole job, or will it be priced on an hourly rate. Are there any extra expenses or potential costs? Also, enquire about payment methods. What to expect
- A timely response. As you’re dealing with someone who is on the job and not in a call center, the response may not be immediate. A reasonable expectation is a response within 24 hours. Preferably same day or within a few hours. Sometimes you may get lucky and they may be able to reply between jobs.
- Consistent communication. This applies to the tradie and the client. It’s important that both parties keep in touch and reply to each other with the required information in a timely manner wherever possible.
- Neat and tidy. Are they clean and organized? Do they clean up regularly and especially on completion.
- Do they explain the process, what is involved and what to expect?
- Are they punctual? They should show up on the set date and on time.
- Are they reliable? Do they complete as agreed?
- Are they honest? Do you get good advice? Their focus should be on helping you achieve a result. It’s not about money. They should be a trusted advisor for you and be able to make recommendations that are helpful to you.
A good handyman can be an invaluable asset to any home or business owner, real estate agent, strata management company or maintenance company dealing in commercial property.
They are often the “go to” person for a variety of small or urgent repairs.Having access to a reliable handyman is no different to having a trusted, accountant, lawyer, appliance repair person, plumber or doctor. When you need help, they are there to assist.
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