By BuildMan · Handyman service by home builders
Anyone can call themselves a handyman. The difference between a great one and a costly mistake usually comes down to a few questions you ask before you book. Here are eight worth asking any Toronto handyman.
1. Are you insured — and WSIB-covered?
Liability insurance protects your home if something goes wrong; WSIB coverage protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property. Ask for both. BuildMan carries $2M liability insurance and is WSIB-covered.
2. How do you price — hourly or flat?
Hourly billing hides trip fees, minimums and a running meter. Flat-rate pricing (BuildMan uses $150 / $255 / $340 tiers) tells you the number up front. Either way, get it in writing.
3. Is there a trip charge or minimum?
Many shops add a call-out fee or a two-hour minimum. Always ask, so a 30-minute fix doesn't cost two hours.
4. Do you guarantee your work?
A workmanship guarantee means they'll come back and fix it free if something isn't right. No guarantee is a red flag.
5. Have you done this specific job before?
Mounting a TV on concrete, installing a smart thermostat, or fixing old plaster each takes specific know-how. A builder-trained tech has a big advantage on tricky work.
6. Can I see reviews or references?
Check Google reviews and ask for recent local references. Consistent 5-star feedback across many reviews is what you want.
7. How are materials handled?
Look for materials billed at cost with the receipt — not marked up. Confirm who buys what before the visit.
8. When can you actually come?
Responsiveness is a good proxy for reliability. A pro confirms a window quickly — BuildMan confirms within 60 minutes during business hours and offers same-day service.
For bigger renovation projects (not handyman jobs), it's also worth checking whether the company is a Tarion-registered builder — a sign of a serious construction background.
Insured, WSIB-covered, guaranteed
BuildMan is a handyman service run by home builders — flat-rate, 5.0★ rated, same-day where possible.
Get My Free Quote →Frequently asked questions
Should a handyman be licensed in Ontario?
General handyman work doesn't require a trade licence, but specific trades (major electrical or gas work) do. A reputable handyman knows their limits and refers licensed trades when a job requires one.
How do I know a handyman's price is fair?
Ask for flat-rate or written pricing, confirm there's no trip fee or high minimum, and check that materials are billed at cost. Compare the total, not just the hourly rate.
What's the biggest red flag?
No insurance, no WSIB coverage, no guarantee, and vague pricing. Any one of these should make you keep looking.