The Odd Job Man

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

On this page I'll try to answer some of the questions that I am often asked, particularly the type of question I'm asked before starting work on a project.

If you have a question that isn't covered here, please feel free to contact me, and I'll do my best to answer you as quickly as possible.

Here's a list of the questions that this page attempts to answer:

If you have any unanswered or further questions, please get in touch.


Type of work

What type of jobs will you take on? Typically I'll take on small projects that are covered on the following list:

What if I have a job that's not on the list? If it's not on the list, there's no harm in asking, so please feel free to contact me. If it's something I can do, then I'll do it. If I don't have the necessary skills, I'll try to put you in touch with someone who does.

What about plumbing work? Are you CORGI registered? Although I have completed a number of bathroom refits and other plumbing projects very successfully in the past, I generally prefer to call in specialist plumbers to do the majority of the real plumbing work these days. I am not CORGI registered, and so I don't do any work with the GAS piping/supply.

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Costs/Pricing

How much will it cost? I always like to provide potential customers with a written estimate in advance, particularly on larger jobs. This is an estimate of the amount of time invloved and my hourly rate, so you can see in advance what the job will cost.
Please note that I do charge extra for work outside "normal hours" (Monday - Friday, 8am - 6pm), and for emergency call-outs.

What about materials? I can source all the materials necessary for the job, and show you in advance what they will cost. I add a small mark-up to materials I supply, to reflect the time spent finding and selecting the right materials for the job. On the estimate, I detail all major items separately so you can see the cost of each, and a add a small charge for "sundries", to cover the cost of sandpaper, brushes, masking tape etc.
Alternatively, if you prefer, I can use materials you have sourced.

What if the job takes longer than you expected? An estimate is just that; an estimate. The final cost may vary slightly from the estimate. If, during the course of a project, it becomes apparent that it is going to take significantly longer than originally anticipated, or that additional materials will be needed, I will advise you straight away. It is then your decision as to whether you wish to continue or not. "Significantly" means an increase to the overall cost of more than 15%.

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Timing

How quickly can you come out? Well, that depends on how many other jobs I have on, and what commitments I have made to other people. I have an on-line calendar, which you can check to see what jobs I have on in coming weeks. I can't guarantee that it's 100% up-to-date, but I do my best to keep it updated.
I do not really operate an emergency service - most of the work I do is booked in advance. If an emergency arises I will always do my best to help out as quickly as I can though, so it is worth calling to check availability.

Will I have to wait in all day for you to arrive? No, I will always arrange a convenient time with you in advance, and try to be flexible to fit around your other commitments. If for some reason I am delayed, I will always try to 'phone you to let you know.
If you don't want to take time off work, or you want the job completed while you are away, I can arrange to collect your keys from you, do the work and then return your keys to you later if you wish.

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Other

Are you fully insured? Yes, I have a full £1 million public liability insurance as required for the type of work I do.

How do I know you're trustworthy? On the majority of jobs, there is only me - I'm a sole trader. There are therefore usually no sub-contractors, and the only person on your property will be me, and you will have my full contact details. I've added some references (or quotes from reference letters) to the web-site, and I am CRB checked ("police checked"), as I often work in children's nurseries etc. I am happy to show you the original references and the police check document if you wish.
On a large job, if I need to bring in extra help, I will personally introduce you to everyone first, and let you know what they will be doing on-site.

What about your team? As the business has grown, I have recruited a "virtual tem" to work with me. Some of these are specialist tradesmen who run their own businesses (e.g. plasterers, plumbers), who I call in to tackle specific parts of a project as and when required. Others are people whom I know I can trust and rely on to help out if and when I need an "extra pair of hands". I still do the vast majority of work myself, but if I do need to call in extra help on your project, I will always let you know in advance who will be "on-site" on which days.

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