FOR REPAIR TASKS

Make sure to get an estimate for the work you need, and agree on payment terms.
By REBECCA SLOAN
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
Squeaky doors, sagging floors or faucets that drip -- a handyman can fix them all.
But before you hire a handyman, how can you make sure you're getting the best man (or woman) for the job?
George Campbell, owner of Handyman Connection in Boardman, said asking the right questions can help homeowners hire with confidence.
"Ask how long the handyman has been in the business and ask for two or three references. Also ask if a permit will be needed for the work you want done," Campbell said.
As a general rule of thumb, jobs that involve significant remodeling or rebuilding require permits.
"A handyman who's been in the business long enough will know right away if a permit is required," Campbell said.
Setting up terms
Consumers should also ask for a written estimate that details who will clean up the mess after the job has been completed and who will haul away scrap materials.
The estimate should also specify when payment is due.
"Most craftsmen tend to want interim payments for their work. Interim payment shouldn't be based on a date or time, but rather an event. For example, when a certain part of the labor has been completed, then the first installment of payment might be requested," Campbell explained.
Some handymen charge by the hour; some charge by the job.
Campbell recommends getting two or three estimates and comparing costs.
Written estimates should also indicate if the homeowner has a right to call the handyman back should a problem recur.
"Plumbing leaks are notorious for recurring," said Jenny Dennison-Budak of Interfaith Home Maintenance in Youngstown. "We had 550 jobs last year and only seven callbacks. Of those seven, five were related to plumbing leaks."
Getting right workers
Both Dennison-Budak and Campbell said plumbing repairs are often best left to plumbers unless the job is very minor, such as a leaky faucet.
Other jobs better left to skilled tradesmen include furnace installation, many types of roof work and all major construction work.
"Some minor roof repairs can be done by a handyman, but if your roof is slate or if it has a very steep pitch, hire a roofer," Dennison-Budak advised.
And always hire an electrician for electrical repairs.
"Always, always, always!" Dennison-Budak stressed. "It's dangerous to hire anyone else for the job. You're dealing with 220 volts no matter who's working on it, and if the job isn't done exactly right, your house could burn down."
Speaking of dangers, homeowners should also make sure that the handyman they hire carries proper insurance.
"Insist that the handyman carries insurance that will cover both injury and damage to property," Campbell said. "Insurance companies provide something called certificate of insurance. The handyman should carry this with them and show it to the homeowner as proof of insurance. If you have doubts about someone, call the Better Business Bureau."
What about women?
And what if you'd rather hire a handywoman to do the job?
"Many people actually prefer hiring a woman because they feel safer with a woman in their home," Campbell said. "Unfortunately, the field still seems to be dominated primarily by men. We have about 15 to 30 people working for us throughout the year, and all of them are men."