When it comes to choosing a handyman for your next home project, reviewing their past work can make all the difference. A strong portfolio gives insight into the quality of their craftsmanship and whether their style and skills match your needs. But how do you effectively evaluate a handyman’s portfolio or past projects? Here’s a practical guide to help you make a confident choice.
This blog is part of our series on how to hire a reliable handyman – sharing everything you need to know to get the best handyman for your needs.
Why Reviewing Past Work is Important
Before diving into specifics, let’s talk about why checking a handyman’s previous projects is essential. A portfolio reveals more than just a history of work—it provides a snapshot of their attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and consistency. It also allows you to get a feel for the range of projects they can handle, from plumbing and carpentry to more specialised tasks.
Key Aspects to Assess in a Portfolio
When looking through a portfolio, keep an eye on a few critical factors. Each project image or description can tell you a lot about the handyman’s approach to their work.
1. Quality of Workmanship
Photos or project descriptions should clearly show the level of care and skill put into the job. High-quality workmanship is usually evident in:
- Finishes and Clean Edges: Look for smooth finishes, seamless joins, and tidy corners in woodwork, plastering, or painting.
- Attention to Detail: Check whether fittings are aligned properly, tiling is even, and any installations look well executed.
- Durability Considerations: Well-documented projects should mention how the handyman ensures longevity in their work, like using the right materials or securing fixtures properly.
2. Range of Experience
Portfolios that display a wide variety of work show that the handyman can adapt to different tasks. A more diverse portfolio might include:
- Carpentry and Joinery: Examples of shelves, kitchen fittings, or built-in wardrobes.
- Plumbing Projects: From installing a new tap to full bathroom renovations.
- Painting and Decorating: Before and after shots are ideal, demonstrating their precision and eye for design.
Consider if they’ve handled projects similar to what you need. For instance, if you’re looking to revamp a garden deck, check whether they’ve completed outdoor carpentry before.
3. Problem-Solving Skills
Not all projects go as planned. Some portfolios will describe challenges the handyman faced, like unexpected structural issues or weather-related delays. A great handyman doesn’t just highlight the challenge but explains how they resolved it effectively. This gives you confidence that they can manage problems if they arise on your project.
4. Customer Testimonials and Feedback
Often, portfolios will include quotes or links to reviews from previous clients. Read these carefully to see what people appreciated about the handyman’s work. Look out for praise about reliability, communication, and efficiency. If available, online platforms like Google Reviews or Checkatrade can provide further insights into their reputation.
How to Spot Red Flags
While reviewing portfolios, you might come across signs that a handyman’s work isn’t up to scratch. Here are a few red flags to watch for:
- Limited or Vague Descriptions: If there’s not much detail about what was done, the handyman might be trying to gloss over issues.
- Inconsistent Quality: Projects with varying standards of finish could indicate a lack of consistency or attention to detail.
- No Examples of Similar Work: If the portfolio lacks relevant projects, the handyman may not have the right experience for your job.
Questions to Ask About Past Projects
Once you’ve looked through the portfolio, don’t be shy about asking questions. Here are some to get you started:
- “How did you approach this particular project?”
Understanding their process helps gauge their organisation and problem-solving methods. - “What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?”
This question can reveal their adaptability and reliability under pressure. - “Can you explain your choice of materials?”
A skilled handyman should be able to justify their choices, whether it’s for durability, cost-efficiency, or style.
Getting the Full Picture
While a portfolio is a valuable tool, it shouldn’t be the only basis for your decision. If possible, visit a previous project site or speak to a past client for firsthand feedback. This step can give you a more complete understanding of the handyman’s work quality and work ethic.
Key Takeaways
- Focus on Quality: Look for well-finished details and signs of durable work in photos or descriptions.
- Check for Versatility: A diverse portfolio shows a range of skills, but make sure there’s experience relevant to your project.
- Evaluate Problem-Solving: Portfolios that explain how challenges were tackled are a good sign of a capable handyman.
- Watch for Red Flags: Inconsistent quality, vague details, or a lack of relevant experience should raise concerns.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to dig deeper by asking about past projects, materials, and problem-solving techniques.
Reviewing a handyman’s past work carefully can save you headaches down the line and help ensure your project is completed to a high standard. Good luck with your search, and here’s to finding the perfect professional for your home improvement needs!
