What to look for in a handyman
- Clear scope of services — A handyman is a jack-of-all-trades, which means they handle a wide range of small jobs. But there are legal limits. They cannot work on gas (Gas Safe required), notifiable electrics (Part P required), or structural alterations (Building Regulations required). A good handyman will be upfront about what they will not do.
- Insurance coverage and limits — Handymen should carry public liability insurance, but check the cover limits and exclusions. Some policies exclude work above a certain height, electrical tasks, or plumbing. Ask to see the certificate and check it covers the type of work you need.
- Hourly vs fixed pricing transparency — Handymen typically charge either an hourly rate (£30–£50 per hour) or a fixed price per job. For small tasks, hourly rates are common. For defined jobs (hanging a door, fitting shelves), a fixed price avoids bill shock. Ask which model they use and whether there is a minimum callout charge.
- References for similar jobs — Handymen do varied work, so ask for references specifically for the type of job you need. A handyman who is excellent at flatpack assembly may not be competent at tiling or plumbing repairs. Match the reference to the task.
- DBS check for home access — If a handyman will be working in your home regularly, particularly where children or vulnerable adults are present, a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check provides reassurance. Not all handymen hold one, but a professional who regularly enters homes should.
- Own tools and transport — A professional handyman arrives with their own toolkit, power tools, and a van stocked with common fixings (screws, rawl plugs, filler, silicone). If they need to borrow your tools or make multiple trips to the hardware shop, they are not prepared.
Questions to ask before hiring
- What work will you NOT do? This is the most important question for a handyman. Specifically ask about gas, electrics, plumbing alterations, and structural work. A professional handyman will clearly state their limits. If they claim to do everything, that is a red flag.
- Do you charge hourly or a fixed price for this job? For small tasks (hanging pictures, fixing a leaky tap), hourly is common. For defined jobs (fitting a new door, assembling furniture), a fixed price is better. Ask about minimum charges — many handymen have a one-hour or two-hour minimum.
- Are you insured, and does the policy cover this type of work? A general public liability policy may exclude certain tasks. Ask specifically whether the insurance covers the job you need. If they hesitate or cannot produce a certificate, look elsewhere.
- Do you hold a DBS check? For regular home access, particularly in households with children or elderly residents, a DBS check provides important peace of mind. Ask whether they have a current enhanced or basic DBS certificate.
- Can you provide references from similar jobs? Handymen cover a broad range of work. Ask for references specifically from the type of job you need, not just general character references. A good handyman will have repeat clients who can vouch for their reliability and quality.
Red flags to watch for
- Claims to do gas or notifiable electrical work. A handyman who offers to fit a gas cooker, move a radiator, or install a new electrical circuit without the required Gas Safe or Part P registration is breaking the law and putting you at risk. These jobs require qualified, registered tradespeople.
- No insurance or refuses to show the certificate. Without public liability insurance, you are personally liable for any damage or injuries that occur during the work. This is non-negotiable — no certificate means no hire.
- No fixed address or branded vehicle. A professional handyman should have a verifiable business address (even if they work from home) and, ideally, a branded van. An unmarked car and a pay-as-you-go phone number are warning signs.
- Demands cash only with no receipt. Cash-only operators are often avoiding VAT and tax obligations. More importantly, without a receipt you have no proof of payment or basis for a complaint. Always get a written receipt.
- Overcomplicates simple jobs to inflate the price. A simple job like fitting a bathroom shelf should not require a half-day discussion about structural integrity. If a handyman is making a straightforward task sound complex, they may be inflating the price or covering lack of experience.
Find rated handymen in Kent
- Handymen in Kent — county-level directory
- Handymen in Maidstone
- Handymen in Canterbury
- Handymen in Dartford
- Handymen in Tunbridge Wells
- Handymen in Ashford
Browse General Toolkit → Hand-picked by Kent tradespeople. Amazon UK prices.