10-07-2024

What services can a handyman provide me

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A handyman is a valuable resource for anyone with a home, whether it’s a small flat or a large residence. They are specialists in various fields and can carry out many jobs requiring minor repairs, alterations, maintenance, and even basic construction without the need for a full-time contractor. Knowing what services a handyman can provide is key to finding the right person for the job. This article will explore the different types of work that a handyman can do for you in the UK.https://www.handyexperts.co.uk/

Can a Handyman Carry Out Plumbing Work?

A handyman is a qualified and skilled tradesman who can handle most plumbing tasks, such as repairing and replacing taps, fixing leaks, unblocking sinks and toilets, and rerouting piping. More complex jobs, such as installing a boiler or shower, may require the expertise of a fully qualified plumber or gas engineer. However, if your plumbing tasks are relatively simple, a handyman should be able to do them for you.

 

Can a Handyman Replace or Add Additional Switches, Lights, and Plug Sockets?

Yes, a qualified handyman can carry out minor electrical work such as dimmer switches, downlights, wall sockets, and internal lighting. These tasks usually require special top-up qualifications, so it’s important to ensure that your handyman has received professional training in the area they are working in. 

Additionally, depending on where you live, a permit may need to be obtained before any electrical work can begin. It is always best to call a certified electrician for more complex tasks, as they have the experience to complete the job safely and efficiently.

 

Painting and Decorating Work

A handyman is also very useful for painting and decorating tasks. From painting walls and ceilings to hanging wallpaper and applying wood varnish to skirting boards, their skill sets make them capable of finishing a wide range of jobs. Professional handymen are often members of the Painting and Decorating Association, ensuring quality and an excellent standard of workmanship.

 

Household Carpentry

Carpentry is another task that falls into the remit of the handyman. This can include putting in shelves, assembling furniture, installing cupboards, decking, fencing, window fitting, and much more. A good handyman should be handy with a hammer and drill and experienced enough to shape and cut wood to desired measurements. It is also important to check their credentials and references to ensure you’re getting an experienced carpenter.

 

General Maintenance

General maintenance activities that don’t fit any particular category can also be carried out by a handyman. This could include small home repairs, gutter cleaning and maintenance, lawn mowing and edging, re-hanging doors, and assembling flat-pack furniture. Additionally, they can provide advice on what needs to be done and suggest suppliers and helpful tips.

 

List of Jobs a Handyman Cannot Do

While a handyman can do many types of jobs, there are certain tasks that typically require a licensed professional due to their complexity, potential for danger if done incorrectly, or because of legal regulations. 

The specifics can vary depending on local and national laws, but here are some jobs that often require a licensed professional:

 

Major Electrical Work

While a handyman might be able to change a light fixture or outlet, most major electrical work requires a licensed electrician. This can include adding new electrical circuits, major electrical repairs, or any work on the main electrical panel.

Major Plumbing Work

Similar to electrical work, a handyman can probably handle minor plumbing repairs like fixing a leaky faucet, but major plumbing work like rerouting pipes, installing new sewer lines, or any work related to the main sewer line typically requires a licensed plumber.

Structural Changes

If you need to make changes to the structure of a building, such as removing or adding walls, this usually requires a licensed contractor or structural engineer. This kind of work can impact the integrity of the building and needs to be done correctly.

Gas Appliances

Any work involving gas appliances or gas lines should be done by a licensed professional. This is both for safety reasons and because in many places it’s illegal for anyone who isn’t licensed to work on gas lines.

HVAC System Installation or Major Repair

Installing or repairing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems usually requires a licensed HVAC contractor. These systems are complex and if they’re not installed or repaired correctly, it can be both dangerous and expensive to fix.

Roofing

While a handyman might be able to handle minor roof repairs, installing a new roof usually requires a licensed roofer.

Asbestos Removal

This is a job for professionals who are trained and equipped to handle and dispose of this hazardous material safely.



Jobs a Handyman Can Do

Jobs a Handyman Cannot Do

Minor plumbing repairs (e.g., fixing leaks, replacing taps)

Major plumbing work (e.g., rerouting pipes, installing new sewer lines)

Minor electrical work (e.g., changing light fixtures, adding outlets)

Major electrical work (e.g., adding new electrical circuits, main panel work)

Painting and decorating (e.g., painting walls, hanging wallpaper)

Structural changes (e.g., removing or adding walls)

Carpentry (e.g., installing shelves, assembling furniture)

Gas appliance installation and repairs (e.g., gas line work)

General maintenance (e.g., gutter cleaning, lawn mowing)

HVAC system installation or major repairs

Picture and mirror hanging

Roofing (installing a new roof)

Flat-pack furniture assembly

Asbestos removal



Conclusion

The range of services provided by a handyman can be invaluable to anyone who needs help with DIY and home improvement tasks. They can complete all sorts of minor repairs, from plumbing to carpentry, as well as general maintenance jobs, all of which can save both time and money in the long run. If you’re looking for someone to carry out a specific task for you, it’s worth seeing if a handyman can do it.

 

Need Assistance Finding a Handyman Near You?

Handy Experts

For all your handyman needs, Handy Experts provides hassle-free trade services. Find and book your local expert with ease.

 

Call us for a chat or free advice: 0330 912 2323 (local rate)

 

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