Houston handyman questions, answered
General
How much does a handyman cost in Houston?
Most handymen charge $65 to $125 per hour. Our rate is $95 per hour, and bigger lists get a flat price. You see the price before we start.
Do you have a minimum?
Yes. We book a one-hour minimum plus a trip charge, and most customers pick a three-hour visit so more of the list gets done.
What jobs can you not do?
Texas requires licensed pros for electrical, plumbing, and air conditioning work beyond simple swaps. We tell you up front and refer you to a licensed company.
Do you do repairs after a home inspection?
Yes. Send us the inspection report and we price the repair list. We take photos of each fix for your agent.
Are you insured?
Yes. We carry general liability insurance (demo license). Texas has no handyman license, so ask any handyman for proof of insurance.
Honey-do lists
How many jobs fit in one visit?
Most visits cover five to ten small jobs. We estimate the hours up front so you know what will fit.
Do I need to buy materials?
Not usually. We can bring common parts and put them on the quote. You approve the cost first.
Can I add a job after he arrives?
Yes. He prices it and you say yes before he starts.
What jobs do you not take on?
Anything that needs a licensed electrician, plumber or A/C tech goes to a licensed partner.
Drywall and paint
Will the patch show?
A good patch should not. We match texture and paint the full wall section so the color blends.
Can you fix a water stain?
Yes, once the leak is repaired and the area is dry. We seal the stain so it does not bleed through.
How long does a repair take?
Small patches take one visit. Mud needs to dry, so bigger repairs may need a return trip for paint.
Do you paint whole rooms?
Yes. We can paint a room or just the repaired wall. Tell us which you want when you send photos.
Shelves, TVs and hanging
Will the TV be safe on drywall?
Only if it is on studs or the right heavy-duty anchor. We find the studs and tell you if the wall is not strong enough.
Do you bring the mount?
We can. Add the mount to the quote or supply your own.
Can you hide the cables?
We can run cords inside the wall with a cord kit. A new outlet needs an electrician.
Can you hang a mirror on tile?
Yes, with the right bit and anchors. Tell us the tile type and we will price it.
Doors, locks and trim
Why does my door stick only in summer?
Humidity makes wood swell. Planing a little off the edge or fixing loose hinges usually solves it.
Can you rekey instead of replacing the lock?
Yes, if the lock is in good shape. It is often cheaper than a new lock.
Do you paint the trim?
Yes. We can prime and paint new trim or leave it ready for you to paint.
Can you fix a rotted frame?
Yes, for small areas. If the whole frame is rotted, we will quote a full replacement.
Caulk and weather sealing
How long does caulk last?
Quality silicone in a bath often lasts several years. In a humid house, check it each year.
Can you fix mold in the caulk line?
We remove moldy caulk and replace it. If mold has spread behind the wall, we tell you and suggest a specialist.
How long before I can shower?
Most silicone needs 12 to 24 hours to cure. We tell you the exact time for the product we use.
Will this lower my power bill?
Sealing leaks helps. The amount depends on how leaky the house was.
Repairs after a home inspection
Can you meet a closing deadline?
We can often schedule within days. Send the report early so we can price it and book the date.
Do you handle roof or foundation items?
No. We refer those to a roofer or foundation specialist.
Will I get proof of repairs?
Yes. We take before and after photos and give you a list of what was done.
Do you work with real estate agents?
Yes. Agents can send the list and we coordinate with you for access.
Cost
Do handymen charge by the hour or by the job?
Both. Small jobs are often a flat price. Longer or unclear jobs are hourly.
Is there a minimum charge?
Most have a minimum of one or two hours. We tell you the minimum on the quote.
Should I tip a handyman?
It is not expected. A thank-you or a review is always nice.
Do you charge for estimates?
No. Quotes for your list are free.