How to Prepare Your Home for Handyman Services (or How Not to Drive Your Handyman Crazy)
Let’s be real - calling in a handyman is like preparing for a mini-apocalyptic event where the house gets the lead role. Well, not quite, but you get the idea. There’s dust, there’s noise, and there’s that moment of panic when you realize your favorite coffee mug might be in the line of handyman fire! Don’t fret.
Whether you're a DIY disaster or just too busy marathoning that new Netflix show, here's how you can prep your home for the handyman, while keeping your sanity intact.
1. The Hide and Seek Game:
First and foremost, clear out anything you don't want Mr. Handy (or Ms. Handy) to see. The collection of stuffed squirrels wearing miniature hats? Maybe not the best centerpiece. Remember, while they are there to fix things, they are not therapists. The less they see, the better for everyone involved.
2. Safety First:
No, your handyman doesn’t want to play hopscotch over your kids’ Legos. And trust me, neither do you! Make sure that the pathway to the problem area is clear. Remove any obstacles, and for the love of all things good, please pick up those teeny-tiny doll shoes and toy cars! You're not just protecting the handyman's feet - you're preventing any possibility of a Toy Story 5 plot twist happening in real life.
3. Pet Patrol:
Do Mr. Whiskers and Bella the Bulldog have a penchant for “protecting” the house? Give them a mini-vacation in another room or outside. Not every handyman wants to be greeted with a surprise lick on the face or a cat deciding to nap in their toolbox.
4. An Offer They Can't Refuse:
Have some cold water, tea, or coffee on hand. A hydrated handyman is a happy handyman. If you feel super generous, a plate of cookies can go a long way. But be warned, overfeed them, and they may not fit into those tight spaces anymore!
5. Secret Stashes:
We all have that one drawer. You know, the one filled with random screws, maybe a mystery remote, and cords to devices that probably haven’t been in production since 2005. Make it accessible! Your handyman may look at it, have a chuckle, and then actually find something useful. Like magic, but less sparkly.
6. The “What's That?” Game:
Stick post-it notes on devices, switches, or areas you have queries about. This way, when they are done fixing the leak, they can also address why that one switch in the hallway doesn't seem to turn anything on or off. Plot twist: It's actually a portal to Narnia. But you didn't hear that from me.
7. Tech Check:
If you've called them in for anything tech-related, ensure you've noted down all passwords or made temporary ones. And no, “PASSWORD123” is not a recommended choice.
8. Keep Kiddos at Bay:
Yes, your little ones might be curious about the magic these tool-toting wizards perform. But a flying wrench isn’t quite the show you want them to witness. Set up a distraction for them: a playdate, movie time, or maybe a mission to find out what that hallway switch really does.
9. Bathroom Basics:
Ensure there's a clear path to the bathroom and maybe give it a quick clean. Nobody wants to navigate an obstacle course when nature calls. And you don’t want your handyman’s lasting memory of your home to be a funky bathroom experience.
10. Feedback Fun:
Always remember, handymen are like artists, except with more screws and fewer berets. They appreciate feedback. If you love what they did, tell them. If not, communicate. But always in a kind and constructive manner. Yelling “My grandma could’ve done better!” isn’t helpful. Unless, of course, your grandma is a retired handywoman. In which case, give her a call next time!
Preparing for a handyman doesn't have to be a huge chore. Just remember, a little prep goes a long way. And before you know it, your home will be back to its normal chaos in no time!
Regenerate







