Finding a reliable handyman can feel like a gamble. Anyone can put up a website or a yard sign, and after storms especially, Tampa Bay sees plenty of people offering repairs who disappear once they’re paid. Here’s what to check before you hire someone to work on your home, whether you’re in St. Petersburg, South Tampa or anywhere else in the Bay area.

Understand What Licensing Covers in Florida

Florida doesn’t issue a general state “handyman license.” Handymen can typically take on minor repairs and maintenance, such as carpentry, painting, drywall, trim, doors and similar work. Jobs involving structural changes, roofing, electrical, plumbing or HVAC generally require a licensed contractor in that trade, and some cities and counties have their own rules.

A trustworthy handyman will tell you plainly when a job is outside what they can legally do and point you to the right licensed professional. If someone says they can do everything, including major electrical or structural work, be cautious. You can check any contractor license on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s online license lookup.

Always Ask About Insurance

General liability insurance protects you if something goes wrong on the job, like water damage from a mistake or an accident that damages your property. Ask for proof of insurance before work starts. A legitimate business will be happy to provide it.

Get a Written Estimate

• A clear description of the work to be done
• Labor and materials broken out, or at least a clear total
• What’s not included
• When payment is due

A written estimate protects both of you and makes it easy to compare quotes on equal terms.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Asking for full payment or a large deposit before any work starts
• Going door to door after a storm offering repairs
• No written estimate, or pressure to decide on the spot
• No business name, reviews or way to verify who they are
• Offering to do work that requires a license they don’t have
• Cash only with no receipt

Look for Reviews and Real Work

Check Google reviews and ask for photos of similar jobs. Recent, detailed reviews from local homeowners are a good sign. A handyman who documents their work and responds to reviews usually takes pride in it.

Questions to Ask Before You Hire

• How long have you been doing this kind of work?
• Are you insured, and can I see proof?
• Will you be doing the work yourself?
• How do you handle surprises like hidden damage?
• When do you expect to start and finish?

Not sure what a handyman can take on? Read our guide, What Can a Handyman Do in Florida?

Work With a Local Handyman You Can Trust

Kroon Craft Home Improvement is a locally owned business serving St. Petersburg and South Tampa. We provide free written estimates, show up when we say we will, and tell you upfront if a job needs a licensed specialist.

Call (954) 554-1117 or request your free estimate today. You can also see our full list of handyman services.