Handyperson
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Originally handyman, handyperson is the politically correct term referring to a person competent in a variety of trade skills, inventive/ingenious repair, and maintenance work. The term often describes someone who is paid for the application of these skills around the home. Tasks for which a handyperson is employed may be as simple as a minor drywall repair, or as complex as remodeling a bathroom.
Some handypersons are more skilled than others and perform more than just general repairs. A good handyperson is skillful, dexterous, practical, clever, able, competent, and proficient in whatever it is they are doing. Some handypersons are licensed and insured. Some are not. There are different laws for different jurisdictions and licensing/insurance are not always required. In most jurisdictions, a handyperson cannot legally perform plumbing (they can undertake minor works such as replacing taps, connecting up new sinks, fixing dripping taps or installing new washing machines etc.), electrical wiring or gas-fitting services without being licensed in the applicable trade. This is for safety reasons. See Holmes On Homes for clarification.
While many handypersons can be found through the traditional methods (referral, Search Engine, Telephone Directory, newspaper etc.), some are hired as day labor from the parking lots of local hardware stores. Since a handyperson is often given access to the interior of a home, trustworthiness and general comfort level are of great concern when hiring one. Often, the best way to find a good handyperson is through referrals from friends and family.
