Hiring a handyman can make home repair and improvement projects less stressful. But, if the job involves major electrical work, plumbing, or structural alterations, ensuring that your handyman holds the necessary licenses or certifications is crucial. Unlicensed work might lead to safety hazards, code violations, or expensive mistakes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the license verification process and explain why it matters.
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 Verifying a Handyman’s License Is Important
Before diving into the details of how to verify a license, let’s consider why it’s so vital. Handymen who handle electrical wiring, gas fittings, or major plumbing must comply with local regulations to ensure safety and durability. A licensed professional will have the right skills, knowledge, and insurance cover. If a project goes wrong with a licensed handyman, you’re far more likely to have a path to recourse.
Unlicensed or uncertified work may seem cheaper at first, but it can lead to serious risks, including:
- Electrical fires from improperly installed wiring.
- Water damage from poorly executed plumbing.
- Invalidation of home insurance due to non-compliant repairs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Verifying a Handyman’s License
When you’re ready to check your handyman’s credentials, follow these straightforward steps:
1. Ask Your Handyman for License Details
The first step is simply asking your handyman to provide their license number and details. A reliable tradesperson should be happy to share this information. If they hesitate or refuse, that’s a red flag.
- Pro Tip: If your project is extensive, ask for details about insurance as well, such as public liability insurance or coverage for property damage.
2. Check Online Verification Portals
Most regulatory bodies provide online search tools where you can confirm a license number. Here’s what to do:
- Go to your local or national licensing authority’s website. For example, in the UK, you can use the Gas Safe Register for gas engineers or the NICEIC website for electricians.
- Enter the handyman’s details (name, license number, or company name).
- Verify that the license is active, covers the work type needed, and hasn’t expired.
3. Check for Complaints or Disciplinary Actions
Once you’ve confirmed the license is valid, take it a step further by looking up any disciplinary actions or complaints filed against the handyman. Many licensing boards list these on their websites. A history of unresolved issues could be a warning sign.
4. Contact the Licensing Authority Directly (If Needed)
If the online verification is unclear or if you have further concerns, consider calling the licensing authority. They can provide detailed information and explain any confusing terms or statuses.
- Example: If you’re hiring someone for gas-related work, the Gas Safe Register helpline can answer any questions about certifications or ongoing disputes.
5. Ask for References and Proof of Work
A reputable handyman should also be able to provide references from past clients. When you follow up with these references, ask specific questions about the quality and compliance of the work. If possible, see completed projects to assess whether the standards were met.
Types of Work That Typically Require Licensing
Understanding when a license is necessary can be tricky, but here’s a basic rundown:
- Electrical Work: Rewiring, new circuit installations, and any job affecting your home’s electrical system should be done by a certified electrician.
- Plumbing: Major plumbing repairs, especially work involving water heaters or drainage, require a licensed plumber.
- Gas Installations: Any job related to gas appliances or piping must be performed by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
- Structural Work: Wall removals or anything affecting the structural integrity of your home should be overseen by a qualified professional.
For smaller, low-risk jobs like painting, minor repairs, or carpentry, licensing isn’t usually required. However, even for these tasks, it’s worth checking whether the handyman has certifications or memberships in professional bodies, which can indicate a higher standard of work.
What If the Handyman Isn’t Licensed?
If you discover your handyman doesn’t have the required licenses, it’s best to look elsewhere. Hiring an unqualified individual could void your home insurance or put your safety at risk. For smaller, non-regulated jobs, check for a history of reliable work through reviews and references, but always prioritise safety and compliance.
Key Takeaways
- License Verification Matters: It ensures safety, compliance, and protects you legally.
- Easy to Check: Use online portals and contact licensing bodies to verify a handyman’s credentials.
- Know When It’s Essential: Electrical, plumbing, gas, and structural work must be done by licensed professionals.
- Follow Up with References: Check past work to gauge reliability and quality.
- Red Flags: Refusal to provide license details or a history of complaints are serious warnings.
Verifying a handyman’s licenses or certifications takes a bit of time, but it’s well worth the peace of mind. After all, your home’s safety shouldn’t be left to chance.
