How to Prepare a List of Small Jobs for a Handyman Visit

1. List each job by room and desired result

Start with the rooms where you already know something needs attention. Give each job its own numbered entry, even when several are in the same room. “Kitchen repairs” leaves too much open; “replace two cupboard handles beside the oven” gives a location, quantity and intended result.

For a problem, describe what happens during ordinary use. “Bedroom door catches near the top when closing” is more useful than deciding in advance that it needs trimming. For a new installation or assembly, name the item and where you want it positioned.

• Location: room, floor and the exact item.
• Task: what you have noticed or what needs assembling, fitting or adjusting.
• Quantity: how many separate items are involved.
• Desired result: how you want the item to work or where you want it placed.

Keep one shared list if several people are adding jobs. For a managed property, record which flat or room each entry refers to, so similar requests do not get combined by mistake.

2. Add photographs, product details and parts information

Match each photograph to the job number. A wider view shows the location and surrounding space; a closer view can show the visible problem or fitting. Only take photographs where you can do so safely, without removing covers, dismantling items or climbing to reach them.

For furniture or a new fitting, include the product name, model or product link, together with any instructions you have. Add dimensions and the item's weight where these are already supplied by the manufacturer. Mark unknown details as unknown rather than estimating something that could affect the work.

Give every job a simple parts status:

• Available: describe what is on site, including loose components and instructions.
• Ordered: give the expected delivery date and update the provider if it changes.
• Not selected: ask what information is needed before choosing a replacement.
• Unsure: explain what you have and leave suitability for review.

Check who will supply any additional materials. Do not assume that buying a fitting means every component needed for your particular installation is included, or that the person attending will automatically bring a replacement part.

3. Set priorities and flag work needing separate assessment

Rank routine jobs as “first priority”, “next priority” or “optional”. Explain any practical deadline, such as needing a desk assembled before you start using a room. This gives the provider a basis for discussing the order if some tasks need more assessment or parts.

Keep plumbing and electrical requests clearly labelled. A short task description does not establish how simple the work is, and placing everything on one list does not confirm that one person or one visit can cover it all.

Use the plumbing services information to identify the relevant enquiry for water, fixture or drainage work. For wiring, socket, switch or lighting work, speak to an electrician about the specific task.

HSE guidance explains that competence for electrical work depends on training and experience appropriate to the work involved. If you suspect an electrical installation is unsafe, keep people away and contact a competent person; do not leave it on a routine jobs list to be considered later. See HSE's electrical safety guidance.

4. Explain access, workspace and approvals

Add one property note covering the floor, stairs or lift, entry arrangements and any building restrictions you already know about. Mention limited working space, occupied rooms and items that cannot readily be moved. Ask in advance if moving heavy furniture will be needed.

For London flats, include any known loading or parking arrangements and building access times. Provide the actual information for your property rather than assuming the visitor can park outside or use a communal area for tools and packaging.

If you rent or manage the property, check who needs to approve the work, who will arrange access and who can answer questions during the visit. For wall-mounted items, agree the intended position before work starts. Record any uncertainty about permission or location on the list.

5. Use a simple handyman job list format

The example below shows the level of detail to aim for. It is an illustrative preparation list, not a diagnosis or a confirmed schedule of work.

On a small screen, scroll the table horizontally to read every column.

Use the same fields in a phone note, email or spreadsheet. Keep any unresolved decision next to the relevant job, so it is clear whether the task is ready to discuss or still waiting for information.

6. Check the agreed list before the visit

Send the complete list early enough for it to be reviewed. Ask which jobs are included, what remains subject to assessment and whether anything needs to be supplied or arranged beforehand. If you add a job later, flag the change instead of assuming it will fit into the existing appointment.

• Confirm the job descriptions, priorities and any changes since the first enquiry.
• Check that expected deliveries have arrived and report missing or damaged components.
• Keep instructions and relevant parts together, labelled by task.
• Clear readily movable belongings from the agreed work areas and access route.
• Confirm who will provide entry and answer questions about positions or finishes.
• Agree what should happen if a task needs additional parts, time or separate specialist attention.