A homeowner messages a handyman: "I've got a few odd jobs. Can you help?" The handyman does not know whether it is hanging a picture or rebuilding a fence. He asks what the jobs are. She lists a shelf, a dripping tap and a sticking door. He asks about the shelf, the tap and whether she has materials. By the time he has a clear picture, a week has gone by.
Handyman jobs are small, and the enquiries are often vague. Capturing details upfront makes quoting fast.
Step 1: ask for a list of jobs
A simple list, even rough, gives the handyman a sense of the work. Many customers have several small jobs, which can be grouped into one visit.
Step 2: ask for photos
Photos show size, condition and access far better than words. Photos for accurate quotes are covered in photos and details that make quotes accurate.
Step 3: ask about materials
Does the customer have the shelf, paint or fittings, or should the handyman supply them? This affects price and time.
Step 4: ask about access and timing
Parking, stairs, pets and preferred days help plan the visit.
Step 5: explain how you price
Publishing an hourly or half-day rate, with any minimum charge, helps customers understand what to expect. Mistakes in pricing answers are costly, as described in when your chatbot gives a wrong price. Answers should always come from published rates.
Step 6: capture it in conversation
SpideyChat for home service businesses asks these questions at any hour and captures the job details. Capturing everything a quote needs is covered in quote requests captured with everything you need.
Homeowner: I've got a few odd jobs. Can you help? Assistant: Yes. The services page explains that the handyman takes on small jobs, charged by the hour with a minimum visit. Could you list the jobs, share a photo of each if you can, and let me know whether you have the materials? Which days suit you best?
Step 7: group jobs
Grouping several small jobs into one visit makes the trip worthwhile and saves the customer money. Suggesting it helps both sides.
Step 8: know when to refer
Some jobs need a specialist, such as electrical or gas work. Being clear about what the handyman does and does not do builds trust and avoids unsafe work.
Larger jobs
Some small enquiries turn into bigger projects. Missing a big lead costs far more than a small one, as described in the price of one missed roof replacement lead.
Landlords and letting agents
Landlords and letting agents often need small repairs done between tenancies or after a tenant report. They want quick quotes, clear invoices and someone reliable. Capturing the property address, the list of jobs and how to access the property helps the handyman respond quickly, and a good first job often turns into regular work across several properties.
Older customers
Older homeowners often need help with jobs they can no longer do themselves. A patient, friendly reply and a clear price help them feel safe inviting someone into their home.
Regular customers
Landlords and older homeowners often become regular customers. A simple way to rebook keeps them coming back.
Setting it up
Publish your rates and what you do, and set the assistant to capture job lists and photos. The guides to installing the widget and training your bot explain how.