Questions to ask before hiring a handyman

1. Are you insured, and licensed where this job requires it?

General liability insurance protects your property if something goes wrong. Ask for a certificate of insurance — a legitimate pro can produce one in minutes.

Licensing varies by trade and municipality. General handyman work often requires no license; electrical, plumbing, gas, and structural work usually does. The right answer is specific to your job, not a vague yes.

2. Is this price a firm quote or an estimate?

A quote is a commitment. An estimate is a guess. Both are legitimate, but you need to know which one you have before you agree to it.

3. What would change the price once you start?

Hidden rot, non-standard framing, old wiring, and surprise plumbing are the usual culprits. Ask what happens if they find one — specifically, whether they stop and call you before doing additional work.

4. What deposit do you need, and when is the balance due?

A small deposit for materials is normal on larger jobs. A demand for most of the money up front, in cash, is not. Pay the balance when the work is complete and you have inspected it.

5. What is the warranty on your workmanship?

Materials carry a manufacturer warranty. Labor should carry the pro's own. One year is a common standard for handyman work. Get the term in writing, even if it is only in a text message.

6. Who is actually doing the work?

If a subcontractor or helper is doing the job, ask whether they are covered by the same insurance and background check. In an exclusive-territory model this is simpler — the pro you hire is the pro who shows up.