(1) Hiring on price alone is one of the biggest mistakes when hiring a handyman service. Many contractors may give you a low quote, but may frequently request more money for change orders. The cost to do a job is basically the same.  The difference in pricing is the degree of quality performed, warranty protection and the scope of work completed. If you hire a contractor with a low quote, your project may be poorly constructed or result in a project half completed, and even the possibility of the contractor leaving the job and disappearing with your money.

(2) Know what you like. Your handyman contractor is your construction expert. The best repairs and renovations involve a synergistic relationship with the homeowner selecting materials, finishes and the like and the contractor ensuring the proper installation/construction of all items.  Ask the contractor for customer references who have had work performed similar to yours.

(3) Make sure your contract is clear, thorough, specifies what is included and not included, with a clear payment schedule, and you are given three business days to review it before making it final. Make sure it specifies that any changes must be approved by you in writing. Get all guarantees, warranties and promises in writing.

(4) Determine the value of your project. Determining what you can afford to spend on your project at the onset is extremely beneficial to yourself, as well as your contractor. Budgetary information does not necessarily determine quoted project costs, rather it is helpful to understand for the design-build or repair process.

(5) Use a well known and reputable company who you can always find in the futu re, and easily contact for any reason. You want an established company with an office that you can go to, if you ever need personal contact.

(6) Always verify liability and any other applicable business insurance before contracting with a Handyman services company.

(7) Find needed maintenance early to minimize damage and cost.

(8) Comparison shopping should be based on reputation, reliability, experience and price ‘value’, not just the lowest price of all proposals presented.