Safety Tips
from the Dover Handyman
So you've
called a home service provider in Dover
who will be arriving soon to repair some drywall or paint a room. Though he comes highly recommended by a
friend or family member, the person coming to your home is still a stranger. Sometimes the company will send a different
contractor rather than the one who did such a great job for your friend. In most cases, there is no threat in
allowing the contractor into your home, but older, single homeowners may feel
uncomfortable. Here are some safety tips
that will provide some assurance:
- Ask for the repairman's physical description. If the handyman is employed by a large company, ask the service representative for a physical description of the contractor.
- Ask to see the handyman's photo identification. Sometimes the handyman arrives in his own pick-up truck or panel van with no logo or lettering. Ask to see photo ID or credentials proving he is indeed the home service provider you are expecting.
- Keep an eye on the repairman. A handyman should not roam around your house without your supervision. Show him the job you need done and watch him as much as possible while he works.
- Let a neighbor know that a repairman is coming to your home. If your neighbor is aware that you are expecting someone, then he or she can keep an eye out or stop by while the service man is there.
- Do not valuable items like expensive jewelry, laptop computers, and cash laying around.
- Let the company know about any issues you have with the repairman. Report any suspicious or unprofessional behavior to the company. Perhaps they have record of other complaints so they will take action to eliminate the problem and preserve their reputation.
- Make sure the handyman picks up all his tools. As he is leaving, make sure he hasn’t left any tools behind to give him reason to return unexpectedly later.
- Ask for a written or printed receipt. Once the work is complete, get a written receipt and keep it in your file.
Most home service providers can show that they are qualified, licensed, insured and have
a good reputation. Physical attacks and
robberies by home repair contractors who were called to your home are
rare. The danger is most present with
the handyman who comes knocking at your door to sell his service. A good handyman will not go door to door
looking for work.
The above
tips may be critical to safety in some circumstances, but they are also a good
way to provide your own reassurance.
Being aware of who is entering your home and using good common sense is
necessary.
HandyPro
Handyman Services is a locally-owned franchise company offering home repairs and remodeling. They provide free
estimates and all work is guaranteed for one year. Handyman service technicians arrive within
one hour of the scheduled appointment time, equipped and prepared to handle the
homeowner’s to-do list as they move from one job to the next. All service contractors are licensed and
bonded. HandyPro is a member of the
Better Business Bureau with 0 complaints and a BBB Rating of A+ on a scale from
A+ to F.