SEATTLE, March 26, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Porch.com (http://porch.com), the home network, for homeowners and home professionals, shares advice for homeowners looking to hire a handyman.
"Even skilled DIYers may need a handyman to complete tasks they simply don't have time to do or for occasions when an extra hand is needed," explains Anne Reagan, Editor-in-Chief of Porch. "Before you hire a handyman be sure to ask these questions to ensure a successful project."
Five Must Ask Questions:
1. Level Of Expertise
Understand the full range of capabilities for the task at hand. Even if the job appears to be simple at first, you'll want to hire a handyman who can take on related issues.
2. Scope Of Work
A quality handyman will draw up a scope of work that will detail all work to be included in the price estimate. This document will help provide guidance to every line item and both parties will have a good understanding of what work will, and will not, be included in the project.
3. Payment of Fees
The scope of work will flush out the exact costs, including materials, hourly rates and tax. A quality handyman may ask for a deposit but never pay the full amount before the job is complete. Once the work is complete a handyman will ask for the remainder of the fees.
4. Permit Filing
It is the responsibility of the homeowner to make sure all necessary permits are filed. Your local government agency is your best source of information regarding which projects require permits and what, exactly, needs to be presented during the filing. They will also clarify costs and lead times of permitting. If a permit is required, either the handyman or the homeowner may file. Be sure to determine this responsibility within the scope of work.
5. Ask For References
Always ask for 3-5 references with any professional you hire. Testimonials can be helpful but be sure you ask the right questions. Assessing a past customer's opinion about the quality of work is important but so are opinions about communication skills, efficiency, and other skill sets that make for a great professional.
List of top metro areas for Handyman:
While not every handyman project requires a contract, some tasks will, so make sure you understand what should go into a contract for your handyman's service before starting your project.
About Porch
Porch is the home network, free for homeowners and home professionals. With over 3.2 million professionals and over 130 million projects, Porch enables homeowners to make smart home improvement decisions by giving them the information they need to find the right professionals, get inspiration, and manage their home. The Porch App, a first of its kind app available for iOS gives homeowners direct access to a personal Porch Concierge to help find the best professionals for your home. For more information about Porch, visit http://porch.com and to download the Porch App at http://porch.com/app
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