What services can a handyman provide me

One of the benefits of a good handyman is being able to get those smaller household jobs sorted without organising a major building project. But some jobs are better left to a specialist.

The sort of jobs a handyman can help with

A handyman usually works across a range of household maintenance and improvement tasks. The exact work depends on the person’s experience, equipment and competence, as well as the condition of your property.

• Furniture and fittings: assembling flat-pack furniture, putting up shelves, fitting curtain poles and hanging mirrors.
• Decorating: minor plaster repairs, preparation, painting and wallpapering.
• General maintenance: adjusting doors, replacing suitable fittings and small carpentry jobs.
• Sealing and tiling: suitable resealing, grout repairs and straightforward tiling work where the surface and waterproofing are sound.

Can a handyman do plumbing work?

Some non-gas plumbing tasks can be undertaken by a suitably competent multitrade worker. More involved leaks, drainage problems, changes to pipework or jobs affecting the wider water system may be better handled by a plumber. There is no universal UK rule dividing plumbing work into licensed “minor” and “major” categories, so the scope and competence matter.

What about electrical work?

Electrical work is different from putting up a shelf. Alterations to wiring, sockets or fixed lighting should be assessed and carried out by someone with the relevant electrical competence. The work must meet applicable safety requirements and, where relevant, Building Regulations notification and certification rules. For this type of job, book an electrician rather than assuming it belongs on a general handyman list.

Jobs that need a specialist

Gas work must be carried out by an appropriately Gas Safe registered engineer. Structural alterations, significant roofing work, specialist drainage and suspected asbestos can also require specific assessment, skills or procedures. The important question is not just whether somebody is willing to do a job, but whether they are properly equipped and competent for it.

Finding the right person

You do not need to work out the trade yourself before contacting HandyExperts. Tell our office what you need, describe any symptoms and send photos if possible. We can discuss the work and arrange an appropriate tradesperson or specialist.

See our handyman service or call 0330 912 2323 for help with a job at home.