Some types of installations and repairs in your home need a certain level of quality. This is especially true if you plan to sell your home in the future. A shoddy job can devalue your home’s worth. That’s why it’s best not to do some jobs yourself.
That’s also why, depending on the type of installation required, sometimes it’s better to hire an experienced installation service than try to save money with a handyman. (Although there are times when a professional handyman can be a good choice, which we will cover below).
The last thing you want to do is to spend money to have something done and later have to turn around and pay someone else to do it correctly the second time.
Further, professionals tend to be licensed, bonded, and insured. This helps ensure that the work will meet industry standards, while the insurance protects you against damage and accidents.
Read More: 5 Reasons You’ll Regret Buying a ‘Smart’ Appliance
When to Choose a Handyman and How to Find a Good One
There are some jobs when hiring a professional handyman can be a good choice. It will depend on the repair and service being done.
The first thing you want to do is choose a professional handyman. This is someone who is licensed, bonded, and insured. You don’t want a handyman who does repairs as a side gig. You want to choose someone with a full-time professional business who also has positive online reviews with trusted websites such as Angi, Yelp, and Google.
When choosing a professional handyman service, follow all the same steps above for vetting them including experience, reviews, guarantees, etc. They should also provide written contracts that describe the details of the work and costs.
Types of Jobs Best Suited for a Handyman
- Installing a ceiling fan
- Installing an appliance
- Interior painting
- Drywall repair
- Deck or porch repairing or staining
- Cleaning out gutters, installing a gutter guard
- Power washing
- Unclogging drains
- Wiring a light fixture
- Assembling furniture
- Caulking
- Adding a water filter to a faucet
- Minor electrical or minor plumbing repairs
Jobs Not Suited for a Handyman
- Installing an HVAC
- Major plumbing repairs, such as re-plumbing or new plumbing
- Room additions or construction
- Foundation work
- Demolition
- Roofing
- Wood rot repair
How to Choose a Trustworthy Installation Service for Your Home
Whether you’re considering a new fence, plumbing repairs, or HVAC installation, the choice of a reputable installer can make all the difference. It doesn’t matter if it’s a one-time repair or a complete renovation. Whatever type of installation that occurs in your home matters. Not only does it need to last, but the quality of the work should be something that adds value to your home – not subtract from it.
Here are some of the essential factors to consider when selecting an installation service. These steps will give you guidelines for choosing a service provider that will ensure the quality, reliability, and safety of the work performed in your home.
1. Research and Recommendations
Start your search by conducting thorough research on potential installation services in your area. Look for online reviews, testimonials, and ratings from previous customers.
Additionally, seek recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have had similar services performed in their homes. Word-of-mouth recommendations often provide valuable insights into the reliability and quality of a service.
2. Check Credentials and Certifications
Ensure that the installation service you are considering has the necessary credentials and certifications. This may include licenses, bonding, and insurance. A legitimate and reputable installer will be happy to share these credentials with you.
Licensing ensures that the installer meets industry standards and regulations, while insurance protects you in case of accidents or damages during the installation process.
3. Experience and Expertise
Consider the experience and expertise of the installation service in the specific area you require assistance. Different projects, such as plumbing, fencing, or HVAC installation, demand different skill sets.
Choose a service provider with a proven track record in the type of installation you need. Experienced professionals are more likely to handle unexpected challenges and deliver high-quality results.
4. Transparent Pricing and Estimates
A trustworthy installation service will provide transparent pricing and detailed estimates for the work to be performed. Beware of services that give vague estimates or quotes without thoroughly assessing the scope of the project.
A reliable installer should be clear about the costs involved, potential additional charges, and any necessary permits or materials.
5. Communication Skills
Effective communication is key to a successful installation process. Choose a service that communicates openly and clearly. A trustworthy installer will keep you informed about the progress of the project, and any unexpected issues that may arise, and provide clear timelines for completion.
Good communication fosters a positive working relationship and ensures that you are well-informed throughout the installation.
6. Warranty and Guarantees
Inquire about the warranty and guarantees offered by the installation service. A reputable installer should stand behind their work and offer warranties on both labor and materials.
A service provider with a commitment to quality ensures that you have recourse in case of any issues that may arise after the installation is complete.
7. Check References
Many people skip this step. Don’t. Ask the installation service for references from previous clients. Contact these references to inquire about their experiences with the service.
This direct feedback from past customers can provide valuable insights into the installer’s professionalism, work quality, and customer satisfaction.
8. Read the Contract Thoroughly
Before committing to an installation service, carefully read and understand the terms outlined in the contract. Pay attention to details such as project timelines, payment schedules, materials used, and any conditions or contingencies.
A reputable installer will provide a clear and comprehensive contract that protects both parties involved.
Key Takeaways
Choosing a trustworthy installation service is a critical step in ensuring the success of any home improvement project. For small repairs and minor installations, a professional handyman may suffice. However, major installations require the services and expertise of experienced professionals.
By conducting thorough research, checking credentials, considering experience, ensuring transparent pricing, evaluating communication skills, checking references, and carefully reviewing contracts, you can make an informed decision that leads to a positive and successful installation experience.
Taking the time to thoroughly research and select a reputable service provider pays off in the long run, providing you with peace of mind and a home improvement project that meets your expectations.
