Frequently Asked Questions

Why don’t you give estimates so we can know what our project will cost?  Other companies give free estimates.

We do understand your need to know about costs.  When our Service Technician starts your job, he or she will be able to give you a good cost estimate and they will keep you informed as the work progresses.  If they discover something unexpected (as sometimes happens in dry-rot repair work, for example) they will ask for your approval before expanding the scope of work.

Most of the jobs we do take less than a full day.  We don’t make separate trips to prepare estimates because adding that cost to a small job would make us too expensive.  You should pay no more than what it costs to do the job.  Our time-and-materials format does just that: no built-in allowances for contingencies, no hidden recovery of bidding costs, no mark-up on materials and supplies.

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How soon can you get started on my repair job?

Usually within one week, sometimes right away.  Since we rarely undertake large-scale projects, we can schedule your job soon.

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You mention that you’re a locally-owned and managed company? How does that benefit me?

We’ve studied some of the handyman franchises.  They suggest that a background in construction isn’t necessary to run a handyman business.  Necessary?  Maybe not.  But, it can’t hurt that we have many years of experience, working with local suppliers and specialty contractors.  See our Resources Referral Network pages.  And – to answer a question with a question – what good purpose would be served in sending some of your money to Chicago?

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I can get my brother-in-law to fix it for much less than you charge.  Why would I want to have you do it?

In addition to having the necessary skills, experience, and tools, our Service Techs are covered by our liability and Workers Compensation insurance.  Even if your brother-in-law has lots of talent and equipment, it’s unlikely that all the appropriate insurance is in place.  We really don’t compete with your friends and relatives because what we offer is different.

We put a lot of attention into hiring skilled and conscientious tradespeople, so we’re confident that we can do right by you in getting the work done.  If risk management is also important to you, we think RedVan Handyman is your best choice.