So you've
called a home service provider who will be arriving soon to repair some drywall
or paint a room. Though he comes highly
recommended by a friend or family member, the person coming to your home is still
a stranger. Sometimes the company will
send a different contractor rather than the one who did such a great job for
your friend. In most cases, there is no
threat in allowing the contractor into your home, but older, single homeowners
may feel uncomfortable. Here are some
safety tips that will provide some assurance:
- Ask for the repairman's physical description. If the handyman is employed by a large company, ask the service representative for a physical description of the contractor.
- Ask to see the handyman's photo identification. Sometimes the handyman arrives in his own pick-up truck or panel van with no logo or lettering. Ask to see photo ID or credentials proving he is indeed the home service provider you are expecting.
- Keep an eye on the repairman. A handyman should not roam around your house without your supervision. Show him the job you need done and watch him as much as possible while he works.
- Let a neighbor know that a repairman is coming to your home. If your neighbor is aware that you are expecting someone, then he or she can keep an eye out or stop by while the service man is there.
- Do not valuable items like expensive jewelry, laptop computers, and cash laying around.
- Let the company know about any issues you have with the repairman. Report any suspicious or unprofessional behavior to the company. Perhaps they have record of other complaints so they will take action to eliminate the problem and preserve their reputation.
- Make sure the handyman picks up all his tools. As he is leaving, make sure he hasn’t left any tools behind to give him reason to return unexpectedly later.
- Ask for a written or printed receipt. Once the work is complete, get a written receipt and keep it in your file.
Most home service providers can show that they are qualified, licensed, insured and have
a good reputation. Physical attacks and
robberies by home repair contractors who were called to your home are
rare. The danger is most present with
the handyman who comes knocking at your door to sell his service. A good handyman will not go door to door
looking for work.
The above
tips may be critical to safety in some circumstances, but they are also a good
way to provide your own reassurance.
Being aware of who is entering your home and using good common sense is
necessary.
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