With the amount of choice, it can be hard to find trustworthy, reliable repair and tradespeople to take care of home maintenance and repairs. We’re here with some tips and pointers:
- Start with word of mouth
- Search online
- Check they have the right qualifications and insurance
- Get a few quotes
- Be curious
- Don’t sign on the dotted line too hastily
- Trust your gut!
- Check in to see how’re they getting on
- Leave feedback
Start with word of mouth
Whether it’s a leaky pipe, new windows or faulty guttering, you should work out what specific repairs you need. Then start your search by asking those you know. Friends, family, colleagues are usually a sound primary source for trustworthy recommendations.
Search online
You can search for local tradespeople online. Visit sites like Checkatrade, TrustATrader, Rated People and MyBuilder. Use them to seek out glowing reviews and ratings of building or handyman services near you.
Check they have the right qualifications and insurance
Make sure your repairer is qualified and has relevant certifications (like Gas Safe for gas work and National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation ContractingNICEIC or ELECSA for electrical). It's also important that they have public liability insurance to protect against any accidents or damage.
Get a few quotes
It’s usually a good idea to shop around, so, get quotes from several repairers. Not only can you compare prices and timelines, but you can get a sense of their professionalism and responsiveness.
Be curious
When you’re seeking the right person for the job. Ask about:
- their experience,
- how they’d handle unexpected problems,
- references from their previous clients.
Don’t sign on the dotted line too hastily
Before you agree to any work, especially with big jobs, check you’ve got a clear written contract. It should outline the scope of work, timelines, payment schedules, and warranties on the work done.
Trust your gut!
Something just feel off? Trust your instincts. Having a stranger in your home can feel personal. It’s important you feel comfortable with the person you choose to do your house repair work.
Check in to see how’re they getting on
Once you’ve hired someone, keep chatting about the progress of the work.
Leave feedback
Why not help others find a reliable repairer, by leaving a review after the work is done.
