Q: What is the best way to keep on top of home repairs? I am handy with a lot of things, but only some things. I take care of repairs and installations as needed, but sometimes I don’t have the tools I need to finish a job. It is expensive to buy every tool I need. Do you have any tips on how to keep up?
A: We get it! You may have tried to replace a light bulb only to find out the ladder you have is too short to reach it. Or maybe you need to repair the cabinet under the sink where the wood has rotted out, but you don’t have a sander. Another hindrance to home repair is the lack of a particular skill. It is hard to match the texture of drywall that has been dinged up or has holes that need to be repaired.
There are countless scenarios where having a trusted handyman to call becomes invaluable. Sometimes, it is a better value to hire someone who has the skills and tools to complete projects. Time is another consideration when hiring a handyman. It may cost more to fix the issue, but if it saves you time, it may be worth it.
Q: What kind of things can a handyman do?
A: According to Yigal Lampert of Response Crew Handyman, a handyman is someone who specializes in repairing homes and installing products. For example, they can repair sticky doors or fascia, mount a TV, install appliances or pet doors. You will want to find a handyman who is honest about what they can or can’t do. However, it’s important to note that they typically do not handle appliance repairs, air conditioning units or car battery replacements. Their expertise lies in installing new doors, shelving, plumbing fixtures and ceiling fans, while flooring and roofing fall outside their scope.
A handyman can perform plumbing and electrical tasks that don’t require permitting. For electrical, they can replace or repair electrical sockets or replace a ceiling fan for example but, they are not allowed to service or add to the electric panel. For plumbing, they can do things like replace a toilet or faucet or install a garbage disposal, but they can’t add a new water line off the main water line.
Q: How and where do I find a good handyman?
A: Finding the right handyman for your needs is crucial. Word-of-mouth recommendations often yield excellent results, says Lampert. It is a good idea to find a handyman who is committed to servicing your home. If you are using a handyman service, consider asking to have the same handyman come for your next project since consistency and familiarity can make a big difference.
Q: What do I need to know before I hire a handyman to service my home?
A: You need to know that the Arizona Registrar of Contractors allows a handyman to work without a license on projects under $1,000, including labor and material. However, if a project requires a permit, the handyman will need to be licensed.
One license category, minor home improvement, allows more extensive work, up to $5,000. If your handyman has a license, check their license at roc.az.gov, search for complaints and review their reputation. Do your homework to ensure that you’re hiring a reputable professional. Talk to previous customers and check for online reviews, as well.
Q: What traits make a good handyman?
A: Lampert looks for the following qualities when choosing a handyman to service his customers: Ideally, the handyman will be experienced in several trades, a good listener, and offer good solutions. They should be accurate in estimating work and able to explain if there is a change in pricing.
A reliable handyman can be even better than a home warranty and a great asset in keeping your home in good repair.
Watch now: These beautiful native plants will be a great addition to your Tucson garden. Video by Dominika Heusinkveld/Arizona Daily Star.
