Frequently Asked Questions
Q.Why should I hire you?
A. If you know someone who can do the job well and for free then I would say go for it. But we don't all have contacts that can do a variety of jobs. So many jobs that need doing around the house or office do not require a tradesman. It is this gap that I aim to fill.
Q.How did you start?
A. Not everyone can afford tradesmen's prices and sometimes a tradesman is not required. Every household has a multitude of jobs that need doing but we don't want to ask several different tradesmen in to do jobs that a good handyman could take care of. For well over twenty years I have found myself in the same position and tackled jobs that I could not afford to get someone in for. As a result, I found myself doing jobs for not only my own immediate family but also extended family and friends. The satisfaction we both received from a job well done convinced me that I could do this for other people.
Q. What experience do you have?
A. Apart from over twenty years as a general handyman to all and sundry I have worked for around twelve years as a landscape gardener/groundsman. Prior to that I worked in the building trade and acquired knowledge that only working on site can provide.
Q.How long do jobs normally take?
A. Without knowing the exact job that you have in mind it is impossible to give an exact time. But, as a rule, I can give an estimate of time over the phone or by email if you give brief details. If, on seeing the job, it looks as if it will take longer, then you can decide whether or not to proceed - without charge for the call-out.
Q. Do you do really do simple jobs like changing light bulbs? A. Jobs are only simple if you can do them. If you can't do it and I can, I will - no matter how simple you think it is. There is no need to be embarrassed because you think it is too simple to ask for help. I won't be embarrassed to say I can't do it if I can't! And, yes, I can change light bulbs. Or fifty of them if that is what is needed!
Q. What are your hours of business?
A. I aim to be flexible, where possible. I recognise that it is not always possible for you to be at home during the day and will try to accommodate all requests outside 'normal' working hours.
Q. Do you do any plumbing or electrical work?
A. Only certified electricians and corgi registered tradesmen may carry out certain types of work and I adhere to that law. I therefore do not undertake work that would require a professional in that field. I can advise, on request, if it is something that I would tackle or whether you would need a specialist.
Q. Do you carry public liability insurance?
A. Yes - to the value of £1million. It is there for your peace of mind in the event of any injury or damage caused as a result of my work. I hope never to need it.
Q. Do you supply materials? A. I am happy to work with materials you provide or I can source materials for you. It may suit you to have heavier goods supplied. I use a transit van because most customers prefer me to source and deliver materials to site. Material costs are in addition to labour.