A handyman is a skilled person who handles a variety of home repairs and maintenance tasks. A handyman service can be your go-to solution for all the small, nagging jobs around your house. They are versatile professionals who can tackle a wide range of needs.
Hiring a professional handyman is a way to get your home improvement list done without the hassle. It saves you time, effort, and the stress of tackling projects you might not have the right skills or tools for.
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Why Do People Hire a Handyman?
People hire a handyman for many reasons, but it often comes down to one of three things: time, skill, or ability.
- Time: Many people have busy schedules with work, family, and other commitments. They simply don’t have enough hours in the day to tackle a long list of home repairs. A professional handyman takes on that burden, freeing up your weekend for more important things.
- Skill and Tools: Not everyone has the experience or the right tools for every job. Do you need to install a ceiling fan? What about fixing a leaking faucet? A handyman has the expertise and the equipment to do these jobs right the first time.
- Physical Ability: For some, a home repair may be too physically demanding. Older adults or those with health issues might find it difficult to climb ladders, lift heavy furniture, or get into tight spaces. A handyman provides the help needed to keep their home safe and well-maintained.
What is a Handyman?
A handyman is a person with a broad set of skills in general home maintenance and repair. Think of them as a versatile problem-solver for your home. While a licensed contractor usually specializes in one field, a handyman has a wide range of experience. This makes them perfect for a variety of smaller tasks that don’t need a specific license.
The handyman meaning goes back to the idea of a helpful, all-around person. In today’s world, it refers to a professional who offers reliable service for your home. They are a valuable resource for both homeowners and property managers.
What Kinds of Jobs Would a Handyman Typically Do?
The types of work a handyman does can vary based on their training and experience. However, a good professional can handle a wide range of home maintenance and small home improvement projects. Here are some of the typical handyman services:
- Minor Plumbing Electrical: Handymen can handle small plumbing jobs like fixing a leaking toilet or faucet. They can also perform light electrical work such as changing out a light switch or installing a new light fixture.
- Carpentry and Drywall Repair: This includes a variety of tasks from repairing damaged trim and molding to patching up a hole in the drywall. They can also assemble furniture, install shelving, or fix a broken fence post.
- Home Maintenance: This category covers general upkeep of your home. It includes tasks like pressure washing your patio, cleaning out gutters, or changing air filters. These regular jobs help keep your home in good shape.
- Installation: A handyman can install a variety of items, from blinds and shades to TVs and mirrors. This also includes simple appliance installation, such as a new garbage disposal or a built-in microwave.
What Types of Work Does a Handyman NOT Do?
Knowing the limits of a handyman’s work is key to hiring the right professional. While they are very skilled, they are not licensed contractors. They do not perform major projects that require specific licenses or building codes.
- Major Plumbing or Electrical Work: A handyman will not rewire your entire house. They won’t move your main water line or install a new electric panel. These are jobs for a licensed plumber or electrician. The reason is simple: these jobs require special permits and safety training.
- Structural Projects: A handyman will not build a new addition to your home or tear down load-bearing walls. These larger projects need the expertise of a general contractor and often require permits from the city. They also won’t replace a roof.
- Extensive Remodeling: While a handyman can help with small jobs during a remodel, they will not oversee a full kitchen or bathroom renovation. That is a job for a team of professionals led by a general contractor.
The Unexpected Benefits of Hiring a Handyman
Beyond just getting things done, hiring a handyman offers several key benefits that go beyond simple convenience.
- Cost-Effective in the Long Run: Many people try to save money by doing a repair themselves. But one small mistake can lead to a bigger, more expensive problem. A professional handyman gets the job done correctly, preventing future damage and costly fixes. For example, a proper drywall repair will last, while a rushed DIY job might crack again.
- Increases Your Home Value: A well-maintained home is a valuable home. Fixing small issues like a leaky faucet or a broken cabinet shows that you care for your property. These small fixes add up and can make a big difference if you decide to sell your home in the future.
- Improves Home Safety: A handyman can make your home safer. They can install handrails on stairs, secure loose floorboards, and mount heavy TVs properly. They can also perform important checks, like replacing smoke detector batteries, that you might forget about.
What Are the Most Requested Handyman Services?
Based on our years of experience, some projects come up more than others. These are the top handyman services that homeowners ask for:
- Mounting and Hanging: This includes mounting a TV on a wall, hanging pictures, mirrors, or heavy art. People often want this done by a pro to avoid mistakes and ensure safety.
- Drywall Patching and Painting: Small holes and cracks in the wall are a very common home repair. Handymen are frequently hired to patch drywall and apply a touch-up of paint so the area looks brand new.
- Light Fixture Installation: Replacing old light fixtures with new ones is a simple way to update a room. This requires a bit of electrical knowledge, and many people feel more comfortable hiring a professional.
- Assembling Furniture: From a new living room coffee table to a complex entertainment center, putting together furniture can be time-consuming and frustrating. A handyman can do this quickly and correctly.
- Pressure Washing: This is a popular request in spring and summer. People want their decks, patios, and siding cleaned of dirt and grime. A professional with the right equipment can do a thorough job without damaging surfaces.
How to Choose and Hire the Right Handyman
This is the most important step in the process. Your experience with a handyman will depend on who you hire. Here’s a guide to finding the right person for your home repair services.
- Check for Referrals and Reviews: Start by asking friends or family for recommendations. Then, check online reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or other local service directories. Look for a handyman with a good reputation.
- Verify Experience and Insurance: Ask about their experience and background. Do they specialize in certain types of work? Most importantly, make sure they have general liability insurance. This protects you in case of an accident on your property.
- Communicate Clearly: Prepare a detailed list of all the jobs you need done. Be as specific as possible. This helps them give you an accurate quote and ensures you’re both on the same page.
- Get a Written Quote: Ask for a quote in writing before any work begins. This document should outline the scope of work and the agreed-upon price. This helps avoid any surprises.
What is the Going Rate for Handyman Services?
The cost of a handyman service depends on several factors, including your location, the type of work, and the professional’s experience. A handyman might charge by the hour or offer a flat fee for a specific job.
- Hourly Rates: A handyman will usually charge an hourly rate for smaller jobs. This can be more cost-effective for a list of several small tasks.
- Flat Fees: For more complex projects, like a full ceiling fan installation or a significant drywall repair, they might give you a flat fee for the entire job. This provides a clear price up front.
Always discuss the pricing structure before they start the work. A professional handyman should be transparent about their rates and charges.
Conclusion
A handyman is more than just a “fix-it” person; they’re a reliable partner for home repair, home improvement, and ongoing home maintenance. Knowing what is handyman services can help you choose the right person for the job, save money, and keep your home in top shape.
If you have a list of jobs piling up, it might be time to hire a handyman. At San Diego Home Remodeling, we provide a variety of high-quality handyman San Diego services.
FAQs
What is the average hourly rate for a handyman service?
The average hourly rate for a handyman varies greatly depending on location and skill level. It’s best to call and get a quote from a local handyman service in your area to get an accurate number.
Why is it called a handyman?
The term “handyman” has been used for centuries to describe a person who is skilled at many small jobs. The word “handy” refers to being skillful or clever with one’s hands. It has a positive connotation of being helpful and capable.
How to prepare my home for a handyman?
To help your handyman, create a clear, written list of all the tasks you need done. Also, clear the work area for each project. For example, if you need a TV mounted, make sure the space is clear of furniture and other items.
What happens if a handyman gets hurt on your property?
This is a serious concern. If the handyman is a professional who carries their own insurance, their insurance will cover the incident. This is why it is critical to only hire a professional who is properly insured. Do not hire someone who is not insured.