13 things a handyman won’t tell you (but every homeowner should know)

On a budget? Ask if there is any way you can help out in exchange for a lower price. Even if you’re not handy, I may reduce my rate on a big job if you can haul materials for me or if you are willing to clean up the work mess at the end of each day.

If a handyman asks to be paid in cash, he probably doesn’t have a business bank account, or he might not be claiming all his income on his taxes. If I don’t have the integrity to pay my taxes, do you think I’ll have the integrity to do good work when you’re not looking?

Sure, I would be happy to fix your sticky door or tighten that faucet now that I’m here. But don’t act surprised when I charge you for it. We make a big part of our living from those “while you’re here” jobs.

Please. Do. Something. With. The. Dog. And I don’t mean lock him in the bedroom, where he’ll bark all day while you’re gone. See if someone can keep him for the day.

Learn how to pet-proof the screen door.

Sign up here to get Handyman’s favourite stories straight to your inbox!

Source: RD.com