Hiring a handyman may seem like a straightforward solution to home repairs, but many homeowners in Singapore are surprised when the final bills turn out higher than expected. In some service providers, while basic rates may be advertised upfront, there are often hidden costs that can add up if you’re not aware and are not careful.
Understanding these potential charges before booking will help you make informed decisions, avoid unnecessary expenses, and ensure that the job is completed without stress or misunderstanding.
Why Hidden Costs Happen?
Handyman services vary greatly depending on the scope of work, the provider’s experience, and the condition of your home. Sometimes, a simple job turns complicated once the handyman starts working.
For example, fixing a loose tap might reveal deeper plumbing issues, or hanging a shelf could expose a weak wall structure that needs reinforcement. These surprises can result in additional charges for extra labour, new materials added, or even repeated visits from your handman.
Many handyman providers offer competitive rates, mainly just to attract customers. However, the low base fee may not include everything required to complete the job. Some services break down pricing into call-out charges, labour fees, transport costs, and material expenses. To ensure you don’t get slapped with many additional charges on the final bill, it’s important to know every detail costs of the handyman visit.
Below are some of the hidden charges that might cost more in your final bill!
The Call-Out Fee
One of the most common hidden costs is the call-out fee. This is a fixed charge that covers the handyman’s time and transportation to your location. Even if the job takes just a few minutes, you may still be charged this fee. Some companies include it in the total cost, while others list it separately. If you're booking more than one small task, try to get them all done in one visit to maximise the value of the call-out fee.
Hourly vs. Fixed Rates
Some handymen charge a flat rate per job, while others work on an hourly basis. While fixed pricing might seem easier to plan for, it can sometimes come with limitations, such as strict job scopes or additional hidden charges if the task turns out to be more complex than expected.
On the other hand, hourly rates offer more flexibility, especially for small or varied tasks that don’t fit neatly into the package. With hourly billing, you only pay for the actual time spent on the job—no more, no less. This is particularly useful when you have a list of odd jobs or when the issue needs troubleshooting first.
At just $40 per hour, Luce Handyman Services offers top-quality general handyman solutions at an affordable rate. It’s a smart way to manage costs while getting the job done right, without overpaying for bundled services you may not need!
Material Costs
Unless it’s a basic job like tightening screws or applying existing sealant, materials will likely be needed. These might include screws, plugs, adhesives, replacement parts, wood, wiring, or paint. Some handymen provide their own supplies, while others ask the customer to purchase them separately. Either way, material costs are rarely included in the initial quote unless specified.
In some cases, handymen may need to go out and buy specific materials mid-job, adding both the cost of the items and a transport fee or time surcharge. To avoid this, provide as many details as possible before the appointment, or request that the handyman bring a range of supplies to reduce downtime.
Additional Labour Charges
Sometimes, a job that appears simple turns into a more complex one. For example, mounting a TV might require concealing wires inside a wall or shifting furniture. In such cases, the handyman may charge more for the additional time and effort. If the task involves two people for safety reasons, like lifting heavy items, you might also be billed for a second helper. Always ask what’s included in the initial quote and under what conditions extra labour charges apply.
Urgent or After-Hours Fees
Not all handyman jobs happen at convenient times. If you need emergency repairs after hours, on weekends, or on public holidays, be prepared for additional charges. Many handymen in Singapore charge a premium for urgent or off-hour jobs due to higher transport costs or limited availability. While sometimes unavoidable, these costs can be reduced by scheduling during regular hours whenever possible.
Disposal and Cleanup Fees
After completing a job, there may be leftover materials, broken parts, packaging, or debris. Some handyman services offer disposal and cleaning as part of the package, but others charge extra. For example, removing old shelves, tiles, or furniture might require a disposal run or special handling. Always ask if waste removal is included or if it needs to be arranged separately.
Rework and Follow-Up Visits
Not every job goes perfectly the first time. If a fix doesn’t hold or you’re not satisfied with the result, you may need the handyman to return. Depending on the provider, this could be free under a workmanship warranty, or it may involve a separate visit fee. It's important to check whether any form of guarantee is included, and how long it's valid.
Travel Cost and Parking Charges
In Singapore, where traffic and parking can be unpredictable, some handymen charge extra for travel to areas with restricted access or limited parking. If you're in a condo or gated community, ask whether parking fees or visitor entry delays might affect the cost. Providing easy access and clear directions can help reduce delays and avoid extra charges.
How to Avoid Hidden Costs?
The best way to avoid surprises is to be proactive. When booking, provide detailed information about the job, including photos, measurements, and descriptions. Ask for a written quote or breakdown of costs before the work starts. A reliable handyman service will be happy to explain what’s included and flag any conditions that might lead to extra charges.
Also, compare providers not just based on price, but reputation. A cheaper handyman who cuts corners may end up costing more in repeat work, poor-quality materials, or damage to your property. Look for transparent companies, have good customer reviews, and offer warranties on their work.
If you want peace of mind and honest pricing, Luce is here to help. Our professional handymen in Singapore are trained, experienced, and transparent with every job. Whether you’re fixing a leak, installing shelves, or tackling a list of home repairs, we handle it all—reliably and affordably.
Let Luce be your go-to handyman service, where every task is expertly handled.
