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01 · Ask
One job or a long list?
Describe what needs doing — the AI tells you whether it's a 1-hour visit, a full day, or jobs that actually need a specialist trade.
Swap your cupboard handles.
Kitchen or wardrobe doors refreshed by handle swap — measured, drilled, fitted in one visit.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
20,000+UK homeowners
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Hire a handyman. Insured, scoped, hourly.
Read the brief on scope, insurance and hourly minimums — then let Three local handymen quote.
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02 · Read the brief
Walk in informed
Public liability, DBS, hourly minimums, certifications. Know when to use a handyman and when to call a specialist.
60 seconds
03 · Compare
Compare 3 handyman quotes
Three local handymen quote on the same list — hours, materials, call-out — so you compare cleanly.
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Top tips
Hiring a handyman, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Match the job to the trade.
A handyman is great for assembly, small repairs, picture hanging. A handyman is NOT for gas, electrical or structural work — those need certified trades.
Get the hourly rate and minimum charge.
Most handymen have a 1-hour minimum or call-out fee. Confirm the rate AND the minimum before agreeing the visit.
Ask about insurance.
£1m+ public liability is standard. Without it, an accidental damage repair comes out of your pocket — even if it's their fault.
DBS-checked for inside-the-home work.
If they'll be in the house with kids or vulnerable adults, a DBS check matters. Reputable handymen mention this on their profile.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Hourly rate
£25–£60/hr
Half-day rate
£80–£200
Day rate
£150–£320/day
Flat-pack assembly (per item)
£30–£150
TV mounting
£60–£200
Door hanging / lock change
£60–£180
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
Infographic · VideoThe Handyman briefing.
Infographic
Handyman quick-view
Video guide
Handyman explained
Swapping cupboard handles is the cheapest cosmetic refresh you can do to a kitchen — the difference between £15 budget knobs and £25 premium bar handles is immediately visible across a wall of doors.
What's involved
- Measure existing handle hole-centres (most UK kitchens 128mm or 160mm)
- Drill new holes if changing style or centres
- Fill old holes with matching filler where needed
- Fit, tighten and check alignment
Typical UK costs (2026)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Per handle (fit only — same centres) | £3–£6 |
| Per handle (new drill + fit) | £8–£15 |
| Average kitchen of 20 doors/drawers | £60–£180 labour |
| Handles supply (mid-range) | £3–£12 each |
Tips
Buy 1–2 spares — manufacturer batches change colour finish over time. If you're re-drilling, ask the handyman to fit a drill jig for consistent centres.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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