subject: Benefits Of A Licensed Handyman [print this page] When hiring a handyman to work on your property, you will be better off with one that is licensed and bonded. In fact, in certain states and building projects, it is a legal requirement. Those that are registered with the Board of Contractors offer a certain level of professionalism and protection. Here are some things to think about:
- A craftsperson must study and pass tests in order to have a contractor's license. This assures the property owner that the person working on their home is properly trained.
- In many states, it is acceptable building practice for a non-licensed worker to be employed for jobs that cost less than $1,000. If it costs $1,001, a licensed professional must be hired.
- If the work doesn't require that a building permit be pulled from governmental agencies, a novice can perform the work.
- Some builders that list their ROC (Registrar of Contractor) number in advertising are using bogus numbers. Be certain to check them out with the registry. Check into their length of time in business, their complaint history and whether their fees for licensure are current and up to date.
- It's important to get referrals. Don't hire a door-to-door solicitor on the spot who rings your doorbell to notify you of a leaky roof or other repair problem that you hadn't noticed.
- Never pay full payment up front before the work is done. Customers usually pay a down payment with the bulk of the fees paid at the end of the job.
- If a problem arises with the quality of work done by an unlicensed repairperson or construction worker, the homeowner won't be able to register a complaint.
- When work is done by a handyman who is bonded, the bonding protects all parties. Being bonded is like an insurance policy that will cover losses should something be broken, damaged or stolen during the job.
- Obtain more than one bid for a project. Compare prices and professionalism of the person who is submitting the bid. Check references.
- Get all estimates in writing. This is a crucial way to protect everyone. All parties will be protected with a written agreement. Once it's on paper, there will be less chance for misinformation and misunderstanding.
- Read all contracts very carefully; especially the fine print and the back of the pages. If you don't understand something, ask for help from a legal professional. Never sign your name on the dotted line of a legal document that you don't understand. Once you sign, you're obligated to uphold the agreement.
- If it is a simple repair job such as patching drywall or repainting the living room, as long as the cost is under the one-thousand dollar mark and doesn't require a building permit, an unlicensed worker can be hired.
- For more complicated jobs, a building permit and the inspections to obtain green tags will assure the homeowner that codes are being adhered to which will protect everyone involved.
Think over your needs as well as legal stipulations in order to decide if a licensed or unlicensed handyman will work for your project.
