Part of the occupations cluster in the employment knowledge graph — connected to occupations, documents, hiring guides, career guides, country guides and employment law.
What a handyman does
A handyman handles the everyday repairs and odd jobs that keep a property in good order — minor carpentry, basic plumbing and electrical tasks within their competence, fixing fittings, assembling furniture, patching and general maintenance.
The role suits a practical, versatile worker who can turn their hand to many small tasks. More regulated work, such as gas or complex electrical jobs, is referred to qualified specialists where required by law.
Core responsibilities
- Carrying out minor repairs and maintenance tasks.
- Fitting fixtures, fittings, shelves and furniture.
- Basic carpentry, patching and decorating touch-ups.
- Simple plumbing or electrical tasks within competence.
- Identifying when a job needs a qualified specialist.
- Keeping work areas tidy and tools in order.
Skills and qualities
- Broad practical skills across several basic trades.
- Problem-solving and a resourceful approach.
- Knowing the limits of their competence and the law.
- Reliability, tidiness and good time management.
- Customer care and clear communication.
- Safety awareness across varied tasks.
Typical employers and settings
- Property-maintenance and facilities companies.
- Housing providers and managing agents.
- Hotels, schools and other building operators.
- Handyman and home-services businesses.
- Domestic and commercial clients.
How the role is recruited
- Roles are filled directly or through agencies and home-services platforms.
- Screening looks at the range of skills, experience and right to work.
- Interviews are practical and may include a skills check.
- Employers commonly check references and any required cards.
- Onboarding covers procedures, properties and the scope of work.
Documents involved
- A job description setting out the tasks and limits.
- Proof of relevant experience or any qualifications.
- An employment contract or assignment terms for agency work.
- An offer letter confirming role, base and start date.
- Right-to-work and identity checks as required.
- A safety induction and onboarding checklist.
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