Advice please (how to find a good handyman)

[tat]

Hello
This is my first, but doubt last post - not sure if I am in the correct section. Sorry if not
I have a number of small jobs I would like carried out. Re glazing a couple of kitchen windows, hanging a new back door, paper and emulsion a chimney breast, sadolin the front and back windows
Can you please advise me how to find a good handyman? I live alone. Where is the best place to find such a person please.
Thank you
Theresa

 

[xerxes]

Hello, and welcome.

The best way is always through personal recommendation.

Failing that, look for cards in local shops (newsagents, for example) and in local advertising sheets and newspapers.

Make sure you have a clear understanding before work begins as to what you are asking the person to do and what the cost will be; it's always best to get it in writing.

 

[tat]

Thank you

Theresa

 

[Steve69the69Gas]

Also if you give us a clue as to what area you are in - we may know a member on here or other forums that are handman types!

 

[tat]

Hello
I live in the Milton Keynes area.

Thank you
Theresa

 

[^woody^]

Ask at you local council - Trading Standards dept or called Consumer protection nowadays, and these will probably have a list of vetted tradesmen from the local area specifically for instances like this.

They will have to have insurances and certain policies in place and work to certain criteria. Frequent probelms or complaints will remove any "bad" ones from the list

Don't advertise that you live alone though - unless you want to get off with the person

Get at least 3 quotes, and make sure that the handyman is skilled in all the types of work you require.

 

[Richard C]

Be aware that although replacing glazing units in existing frames is regarded as maintenance & is permitted by anyone, some replacement doors & fitting complete new window units is notifyable building work unless you use a registered installer & he gives you a certificate of compliance.

 

[tat]

Woody

If he is tall, dark and handsome and of course rich - he had better watch out!

Many thanks for all the advice. Never thought of the Trading Standards, that is good

The frames of the windows are fine - well I think - but not sure why but it looks as if a slight crack is appearing at the bottom of the actual glass bit.

Thank you all

Just one more thing. I have one of these pvc space saver doors. It is ok but is it possible to paint this? Just to brighten the small room up. It is not as important as the windows etc

Theresa

 

[JohnD]

If he is tall, dark and handsome and of course rich - he had better watch out!

I'm dark, will that do?

 

[tat]

LOL

Oh if I was 30 or 40 years younger - you'd not get home for your tea!!!

Theresa

 

[gregers]

hell with an offer like that id travel

 

[dave.m]

Our local Council has a 'Care and Repair' section.

The Care and Repair (Wyre and Fylde) team offer advice and support with repairs and adaptations to the home and also operate a Handyperson Scheme.

We can help people who:

* Are aged over 60 or have a disability
* Live in Wyre or Fylde
* Need repairs or adaptations to their home
* Want help to arrange works to their home
* May need guidance on obtaining funds for works

If eligable you only pay for materials.

Ask your local council if they have such a scheme and if you qualify for help.

dave

 

[tat]

Dave

Thank you very much. I shall go over to our Council tomorrow and see what they have.

It's just a few jobs, but I have to feel ok with who comes in and does the jobs for me

Thank you all

Theresa