advice on hiring a high quality and reliable professional handyman

I'd like to have some repairs performed around the house by a handyman. How can I know if they are a high-quality professional? What should I look for so that I can know they are a reliable contractor?

Asked by Lou on 19th Aug 2020
Expert Trade Answers
"Customer service very important
Time keeping
Before work and after work make sure everything is tidy
Quality of work
Reliable contractor"
Answered on 19th Aug 2020 - Member since Dec 2019 - report
"Look for good reviews, a reliable track record, and qualifications. Often younger trades people won’t have many reviews but good qualifications can make up for that."
Answered on 21st Aug 2020 - Member since Jul 2020 - report
"Check there reviews And read what they say about them for the work they have already done for customers on my job quote when the contractors Quote you for works. If they are any good and like mine they will all be five star reviews which means they are fairly priced and take pride and care with there work."
Answered on 19th Aug 2020 - Member since Jun 2020 - report
"Hello.
Ask to see their public liability insurance. Also ask for references with the name and number of the person who gave the reference. Any one worth their salt would happily do this for you to prove they are decent and have a track record. Also don't pay in full up front. This could leave you in bother if they go bust or just disappear. If it is a big job and only a small firm they may ask for money to purchase the materials but shouldn't pre charge for labour"
Answered on 19th Aug 2020 - Member since Aug 2020 - report
"Like any trade finding some one to work with with can be difficult. However I tend to encourage feed back from clients so look for ratings and don't be afraid to ask questions.
Trades people using this site are vetted and insurances checked.
Also ask to see photos of some work it does not have to be related to your particular job but its always nice to see some work in photos or up close.
When you first use a trades man if you feel uncertain start with a small job and try to build a working relationship we do appreciate feed back it helps."
Answered on 19th Aug 2020 - Member since Jul 2014 - report
"Every time I quote a job I suggest on multiple solutions to solve the problem that you want a quote for. Ask as many question that you can think of and if the person can’t answer then you know the person is no good"
Answered on 22nd Aug 2020 - Member since Aug 2020 - report
"Word of mouth and good solid reviews are, in my opinion, the only way you can be sure.

Also, if they are to be considered reliable and high-quality then please don;t be afraid to ask to see recommendations from previous satisfied customers,and ask to see proof of Public Liability Insurance.

Regards,
Lee.

Maintenance Man NE"
Answered on 23rd Aug 2020 - Member since Feb 2019 - report
"The best way for a builder to be judged is by the quality of his work.
So unfortunately you always run a risk when using a tradesman that you do not know and have not been able to get any recommendations or reviews.

Look to see if they have a website nd portfolio of previous work
And ask if they are registered as a sole trader or limited company. As a sole trader is liable for any mistakes and bad work. A limited company is harder because it is a company that would be liable not the tradesman him self"
Answered on 20th Aug 2020 - Member since Aug 2020 - report
"Hi, I would ask a professional if they could supply references are the public liability insured et cetera also if there is any photos of past and present work that they’ve undertaken and look at feedbacks hope that helps"
Answered on 19th Aug 2020 - Member since Mar 2020 - report
"You can ask for pictures of previous work. Normally builders have pictures of previous work and you can always ask people you may know if they recommend anyone they used who they felt were very good."
Answered on 21st Aug 2020 - Member since Jul 2020 - report
"Hi Lou, you can look for reviews left by other customers for the handyman and look at their work pictures too. You can also ask a family member or friend to take a look the completed work for their opinion."
Answered on 19th Aug 2020 - Member since Jul 2020 - report
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