Step 3: Dig deep

Interview at least three handymen for the job. Find out how long each has been in the business and in what areas they specialize, and examine whether those skills match the work that needs to be done. But don't stop there. Ask for references from similar jobs and speak with previous clients to see whether they were satisfied. Ask for photos of the work, and also find out what the fees are. And be wary of companies that ask for advance deposits.

Finally, check for complaints against the company by contacting the office of consumer affairs in your state (the Consumer Action Website is a good resource for this information) or by contacting a local office of the Better Business Bureau or searching its Web site (at www.bbb.org). Remember, it's not just how many complaints have been filed against a company but also the type of complaints and whether they've been successfully resolved. "A serious red flag would be a number of unresolved complaints," says Adkins. Ask the handyman to provide evidence of liability insurance and get a written agreement detailing the work to be done, cost, and fee schedule. It also pays to verify that the handyman is licensed, though according to the Contractor's License Reference Site (at www.contractors-license.org), not all trade workers paid hourly need a license. Plumbers and electricians must be licensed, though. You'll find licensing requirements for each state on the site.

On now, on to Step 4: Sign off.