Top 4 Handyman Services in Fort Madison, IA
Top questions to ask before hiring a handyman
Handymen are hired to do many various home improvement tasks. Some are general tradesmen, who have a variety of experiences. Others have licenses and training in electrical work or plumbing. The key is asking what their level of experience is for the type of work you need done. Before you call a handyman, know what you need done along with any important details. You'll want an in-home consultation so that you can walk through the project.
Handyman licensing varies from state to state however it's a good question to ask your handyman. You'll also want to verify the dollar amounts for their surety bond (a third party that can cover payments in case the handyman doesn't pay subcontractors or employees) as well as insurance (in case they damage your property or injure themselves).
After the handyman has had a chance to walk through the project, have him or her outline the scope of work. The details of the project, including labor, materials, supplies, rental equipment, or subcontractors, should be listed as separate line items. If you are on a tight budget or timeline, this is the time to discuss options or alternatives for your project. If the project is small, like hauling debris or performing minor repair work, the handyman should request payment when the job is complete. For larger projects that require ordering of materials or multiple subcontractors, it's more common to pay a deposit.
Obtaining proper permits for home improvement is the responsibility of the homeowner. But very often professional file the permits on behalf of the homeowner and should have a good understanding of the process. When the structure of the home is altered, or when changes are made to the electrical system or gas lines, you may need to file a permit. Discuss your particular project with your handyman and ask if a permit is required.
A good handyman should be happy to share references. Anywhere from three to five past clients should be able to give you a good idea about the handyman's work style, ability to get the job done, and the satisfaction when the job is complete. If a homeowner wasn't satisfied with the handyman, be sure you ask specifically why. Sometimes miscommunication can contribute to unsatisfied customers.
Recent reviews for Fort Madison Handymen
While the gentleman was polite and courteous on the phone, not to mention prompt with getting back to me… He told me he couldn’t really do any floors anymore, as his knees are bad and his back is bad so when I asked him but he actually did he said I can ...
Everything You Need to Know About Fort Madison Handyman Services
I’m searching for Handymen servicing my zip code in Fort Madison.
Many handymen provide service to multiple zip codes in and around Fort Madison. Browse through a sample of the Handymen in Fort Madison below to find the right professional in your area for your project. Remember to contact each of these professionals individually to ask about their prices, recent successful handyman services jobs, how they bill, and what licenses or permits they have or will have to get for your job:
- Joe can fix it:
- Service Area Zip Code: 63468
- Mattheis Hale Construction:
- Service Area Zip Code: 52307 and 52406
- P.W. Bushell:
- Service Area Zip Code: 61559
If you weren't able to find the right handyman company that services your Fort Madison zip code, don't worry. Try contacting the company directly to ask them what surrounding areas they also service near Fort Madison.
How does invoicing/payment work for most Handyman projects in Fort Madison?
Every project differs, but you should ask any handyman for an estimate, before they do any work. In fact, ask for their general payment terms before any handyman services work is done.
If the job is large and going to take longer than a day, it's common practice for handymen to request a down payment. Usually, this will be around 25% so they can commence work on your handyman project.
If it's a quick job, you'll likely be given an invoice/bill when the job is complete. Then it's up to you and the handyman to determine if you pay immediately or can send payment at a later date.
What should I check for once my Handyman in Fort Madison has finished working?
Every handyman services project is going to have different results, but here are a few things to check for once any handyman services company has told you they've finished the job:
- Obviously you want to do a visual inspection. Even if you're unfamiliar with handyman services work, this gives you the opportunity to ask questions (even basic ones like, what did you do?).
- Ask the handyman to describe what they did. Whether your handyman services project was a repair job or a building job, have them run you through what was done.
- Compare the description provided on your handyman services project estimate to the work completed. Did the professional do what was promised?
- Request that the handyman do a follow-up visit to check on the work. Most professionals are willing to do this, especially if you ask them.
Latest projects near Fort Madison
Within a week
Sink, toilet, bathtub or other water fixture
Repair
Something else
bathroom floor pipes need fixed and need new tile put down
Leaking from fixture
A month ago or more
Within a month
Install or replace windows
Standard windows
Replace an existing window
2
No
I'm not sure
Wood
I'm not sure
First floor, accessible on foot
I'm flexible
its a church
Walls
Yes, subsurface or backing is already installed
plaster
looking for options
Within a week
Doors
Install
Single
Exterior
2
These doors are on the front and back of the garage
No
Yes
Yes
No
I'm flexible
Pressure-treated pine
Stairs and railings, Decking or deck surface
Loose, wobbly or unstable, Needs to be refinished, Warping or water damage
Minor (the deck just needs cosmetic repairs)
No
No, but I'll provide them