8 Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask a Handyman First

Hiring someone to work on your home—no matter how small the job—means inviting them into your personal space and trusting them with your property. Whether it’s fixing a leaky tap, hanging shelves, or resealing the bath, it’s smart to ask the right questions before booking a handyman.

Not every job needs a big contractor, but every job should be done safely, properly, and with care. A few quick questions can help you feel confident you’re working with someone reliable and skilled.

Here are eight Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask a Handyman Before Getting Started.

1. What kind of work do you do most often?

Not all handymen do the same type of work. Some specialise in plumbing; others focus on repairs, mounting, or home maintenance. This question helps you understand if their day-to-day experience matches the job you need done.

If you’re hiring someone to fix a bathroom fan, but they mostly do painting and decorating, they might still be able to help—but it’s worth checking they’re comfortable and experienced with the task.

This also gives you an idea of whether they work mostly with homeowners, tenants, landlords, or businesses. That context can help you decide if they’re the right fit for your home.

2. Do you have any photos of past work?

A quick look at past jobs can give you peace of mind. You’ll get a sense of the quality of their work and whether they pay attention to detail.

Even for simple tasks like wall mounting or grouting, a photo of the finished result can show how tidy and accurate they are.

Some handymen keep a digital portfolio or even just photos on their phone. If they’re happy to share a few, it’s a good sign they’re confident in the quality of what they do.

3. Are you insured?

This is a big one. Even for smaller jobs, insurance protects both the handyman and the homeowner if something unexpected happens—like damage to your property or an injury while on the job.

Professional handymen should have public liability insurance. If they don’t, and something goes wrong, you might be left covering the cost yourself.

It might feel awkward to ask, but it’s completely normal. Just like you wouldn’t drive without insurance, no one should be working on someone’s home without proper cover.

4. How do you charge—by the hour or by the job?

You want to be clear on how much the work will cost before anything starts. Some handymen charge by the hour. Others quote a flat rate for specific jobs.

Asking this upfront helps you avoid surprise costs. If it’s hourly, ask how long the job is likely to take. If it’s a fixed price, find out what’s included (tools, parts, disposal of old materials, etc.).

Also ask when and how they expect to be paid—on the day, after an invoice, or through a booking system.

5. Do you bring your own tools and materials?

Most handymen bring their own tools, but what about the materials?

For example, if you’re replacing a tap, are you expected to buy the tap and fittings? Or will the handyman supply them? If it’s a wall-mounting job, do they bring brackets or just install what you’ve got?

It’s also helpful to ask if they can source parts for you, especially if you're unsure what to buy. Some handymen offer this as part of the service; others don’t.

Clear answers here help avoid delays or last-minute runs to the hardware shop.

6. What happens if something goes wrong after the job?

Even when the job is done, problems can come up. A shelf might come loose. A sealant might peel. It’s important to know whether the handyman offers any guarantee or follow-up if something isn’t right.

Many professionals offer a short guarantee for workmanship—sometimes 30 days, sometimes longer.

Ask what to do if you spot a problem a few days later. Do you call or message them directly? Will they return to fix it? Clear expectations help both sides feel more at ease.

7. How soon can the job be done?

This one’s simple—but important. If the job is time-sensitive, like a broken extractor fan or a faulty tap, you’ll want to know when the handyman is available.

Some handymen are booked weeks in advance. Others can fit in smaller jobs quickly. If it’s urgent, let them know right away so they can advise honestly.

That said, if someone is available immediately for all jobs, it’s worth asking why. Good handymen are usually busy, and availability can depend on the type of job and travel time between bookings.

8. Do you clean up after the job?

A well-done job should also leave your home tidy. It’s worth asking whether the handyman includes clean-up in their service. For example:

• Will they take away any rubbish or leftover materials?

• Do they sweep or vacuum the work area?

• Will they wipe down surfaces or reattach fixtures?

This might seem small, but it makes a big difference to your overall experience.

Also, if dust or noise is involved, you might want to ask how they protect nearby furniture or flooring. A little care upfront prevents headaches later.

Final Thoughts

Getting work done around the house shouldn’t be stressful. But it’s still your home—and you deserve to know that the job will be done well, safely, and with care.

By asking these eight questions before hiring a handyman, you set clear expectations from the start. You also avoid miscommunication, surprise costs, and unfinished work.

A reliable handyman will always be happy to answer your questions. In fact, the best ones will appreciate that you’re taking your home seriously.

At the end of the day, whether it’s mounting a TV or resealing your shower, a job well done brings peace of mind—and a home that’s just a bit more comfortable.

FAQs

Ques 1 What is the term mean "Handyman"?

Ans. Handyman: A man who is skilled at repairing and making things inside or outside the house, either in his own home or as a job for others.

Ques 2. What is handymen role?

Ans. The role of a handyman is to perform a wide variety of repair, maintenance, and improvement tasks in residential or commercial settings. Handymen are known for their versatility and practical skills, handling jobs that range from fixing leaky faucets and repairing drywall to installing shelves, painting walls, and assembling furniture. They often take care of general upkeep tasks that don’t require specialized licensing, such as minor plumbing or electrical repairs, routine maintenance, and home improvement projects. In some cases, their work also extends to outdoor areas, where they may repair fences, clean gutters, or assist with basic landscaping. Whether working in their own homes or offering their services professionally, handymen play a valuable role in ensuring that buildings remain safe, functional, and well-maintained.