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Last updated: 30 August 2024
Where to start with handyperson training
Handyman training provides upskilling opportunities for people who want to offer these useful services. This article looks at what type of training course could be best for you.
Just because you’re a handyman – or woman – doesn’t mean you aren’t highly skilled.
A handyman often has years of practical skills under their belt. Although there’s not a lot of formal accreditations for a handyman, there’s plenty of handyman training you can add to your skill set.
People will always need ‘odd jobs’ done, so there are many business opportunities out there if you have the handyman skills that are in demand.
This article looks at different types of handyman course, including free handyman training.
What is a handyman?
In general, a handyman carries out small repair jobs and home improvements. Typically, this type of work doesn’t need a qualified tradesperson.
A handyman usually falls under the work categories of ‘general home repair’ or ‘maintenance service’.
Demand is usually high for this type of work. Homeowners often turn to a handyman for the types of small jobs that don’t necessarily need a fully qualified tradesperson.
A handyman relies to a large extent on word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied customers. The better trained you are, the more work you should find.
One of the big problems householders face using a handyman is from rogue traders. Being able to show you are suitably trained to undertake the task at hand reassures customers. We also recommend tradespeople join a reputable trade association like Checkatrade.
It may only be a small job, but getting it done right is a big issue for the customer.
Typical handyman jobs
Handyman jobs can include:
Safety measures
Installing smoke alarms
Fitting carbon monoxide detectors
Small repairs
Mending broken items
Putting up shelves
Putting up pictures
General property maintenance
Painting and decorating
Assembling furniture and equipment
Mounting and installing TVs
Replacing light bulbs
Checking fixtures and fittings are working properly
Outside property maintenance
Clearing gutters
Looking after the outside of a property throughout the year
Any jobs that require major electrical, gas or plumbing work should always be done by a qualified expert.
Why do people want a handyman?
People choose to call in a handyman for many reasons. Here are some:
Too busy to do it themselves
Want lots of small jobs done at the same time
Don’t have the right tools for the jobs
Want a handyman to see if they can do the job before calling out a trained engineer or contractors
Types of handyman training
Start by thinking about getting the right training for you.
There’s a wide range of training available and costs vary. Before choosing a course, you should:
Take a thorough look at what the course provides and whether these are the right skills for you
Decide whether the cost is good value for money
Check the reputation of the course provider by looking at reviews from people who have completed the handyman training.
Decide whether you want to attend a course and how local you want it – or consider an online course
DIY skills courses
Colleges across the UK offer DIY skills courses.
City & Guilds courses
You can learn a wide range of handyman skills with a City & Guilds qualification. City & Guilds works with various organisations that provide skills-based learning.
Practical courses
You could choose to learn a range of handyman skills at the same time. You’ll find that handyman training providers generally offer a flexible range of courses. They include:
Handyman: appliance and skills training
Home maintenance in a two-day course
Handyman training in a 26-day course
Home improvement and maintenance courses
DIY multi-skills courses
Online courses
Some handyman training courses can be done online.
Free handyman training
An alternative to a paid-for handyman training course is to consider free options. You could look for free handyman training by:
Applying for an apprenticeship (you’ll probably need GCSE qualifications for this). These cover a range of skills.
Volunteering, for example, with a charity or housing association, that provides free ‘on-the-job’ training
Some online providers offer free handyman training.
FAQs
What handyman training do I need?
Handyman skills cover a broad range of small jobs around the home – both inside and outside. You might want to be a ‘Jack of all trades’ or specialise in just a few areas.
Is there a training course I can go on?
Lots of courses are available, both in-person and online. They can be for a day or longer. Always check very carefully what you are getting for the price you pay. Also, always check the reputation of the handyman training course provider.
Can you get free handyman training?
Yes, it’s possible to find handyman training at no cost. Typically, this involves volunteering, perhaps for a charity, where you might be able to learn on the job. Free online courses are available and could also consider an apprenticeship.
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