A: Hiring a handyman is not easy and many people have had bad experiences with handymen, i.e. don't show up, don't return calls, say they can do the work, but end up letting you down.  Remember, a handyman is not an expert at everything. Here are a few "things to know" to help you in your search: 

1.  Have a clear idea of what you want, and make a list prior to calling for an estimate - your "honey-do" list.  Your goal is to decide if the person you hire can do enough of your work to make hiring him worthwhile.

2.  Develop a list of handyman prospects.  You can find these in your local newspaper, Yellow Pages, Google search engine, etc. But, first check your local Chamber of Commerce.  Many handymen cannot afford to advertise, so ask your friends and neighbors if they know of a reputable handyman they can refer you to.

3.  If you request a handyman for a job, and he states he is not capable or has concerns about the job, don't hire him for it...but KEEP HIS NUMBER...he's honest and cares about the service he provides. 

4.  Typically, you do not want to hire a handyman for a big renovation or re-model.  This is typically best left to a renovation contractor.

5.  Request references, then check them out.

6.  Ask direct questions regarding the handyman's experience and ability, i.e. how many years have they been in business, do they use sub-contractors, or do all the work themselves, what are their specialties, etc.

7. Request license and insurance information.  In the State of Missouri, there are no contractor licensing requirements as there are with electricians, plumbers, etc., but the reputable handyman will retain an active business license and carry liability insurance.  Ask to see this information.  Call to validate the insurance yourself if the handyman is doing a larger or high-risk job.

8.  For small jobs, many handymen charge by the hour...usually with a minimum charge.  make note of the rates when comparing your choices, and keep in mind that the rate can either be a reflection of his experience, how popular he is and/or his overhead costs.  There is rarely a connection between the hourly rate and the skill of the handyman, as pricing is usually based as much on the experience of the handyman as what the market will bear and competitor rates.

9.  Check for consumer complaints against the handyman, i.e your local Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce. 

10.  Ask if the handyman offers a job guarantee or warranty period on their work.

11.  Most handymen will require an up-front payment that will cover the cost of materials.  This is common, as your local handyman who is not a member of a handyman franchise will not usually be able to cover these costs up-front.  Pay no more than 1/2 down for small projects and no more than 1/3 for larger scale work.

A: Permits are not required for all jobs, but generally, in St. Louis and St. Charles counties, if you are building or going behind a wall for electical or plumbing work, it will require a permit, and a licenced electrician or plumber to perform the work.  Other items you wouldn't think of such as replacing an existing chain link fence, building a new fence, building a shed, building a deck, stairs, etc. also require permits.  If you have a job which requires one of these things, and the contractor or handyman states a permit is not required, call your local city hall for validation.  If you find a permit is required, do not hire those who told you it wasn't needed.  The permit is for YOUR PROTECTION and ensures the work is done properly.

A: In general, YES.  For your own protection, you should leave nobody in your home without you there. This is mainly not for the protection of your valuables, but so you know that the job will be done properly with your supervision. If possible, take pictures of the work being performed.

A: Unless the request is for replacing a ceiling fan, power-washing, basic installation of pre-hung doors, storm doors, faucet replacemements, etc., you should not trust an estimate given over the phone.  A reputable handyman will not want to quote an estimate for a job they cannot see and therefore guarantee. The handyman who will quote a price on complicated items is usually only trying to win your business and does not necessarily know how to do the work, or does know the work involved and will ask for more money when the job is half complete...when you feel "stuck".