Who's That With Your Handyman?
When you invite a contractor into your home, you’re expecting a quote, a plan, and hopefully a sense of professionalism. What you’re not expecting is an uninvited plus one. Yet, for one Atlanta homeowner, that’s exactly what happened, not once, but twice! Two different handymen, two different visits… and both brought along their significant other.
It sounds like a bad reality show plot, but it’s real life. And it raises a valid consumer concern: What do you do when your contractor brings company along?
When Personal Lives Collide with Professional Boundaries
There could be innocent reasons for the plus one. Maybe they’re a co-owner, or maybe they handle the books, or maybe they’re tagging along for moral support (after all, who among us doesn’t have anxiety?). But unless that’s made clear upfront, and the unexpected guest contributes meaningfully to the estimate, it can feel awkward, unprofessional, and downright invasive.
Even worse? When the spouse or partner interferes. Some clients have reported uncomfortable side-eyeing, subtle condescension or persuasion, and even contradictory comments made during the estimate process. That kind of meddling can erode trust before the first nail is hammered.
The bottom line here is that you are hiring a professional to do a job, not hosting a relationship therapy session in your living room.
How to Handle a Surprise Tag-Along
If a contractor arrives with a companion you weren’t expecting, here’s how to take control without causing a scene:
- Ask for clarity: Politely inquire about their role. Are they involved in the business or just along for the ride?
- Set boundaries: If the extra person isn’t adding value (and is making you uncomfortable) it’s okay to ask for privacy.
- Read the room: If you’re sensing friction or a lack of alignment between the couple, it may foreshadow trouble ahead on the actual job.
- Trust your gut: You shouldn’t feel pressured, judged, or talked over in your own home. If something feels off now, it won’t get better once the contract is signed.
Let’s face it, if a contractor’s partner is second guessing or attempting to control the estimate process, what do you think is going to happen when the real work begins? Nothing good, y’all. And certainly nothing you want unfolding in the middle of a home renovation project you are paying for.
You Deserve Professionalism – Period
Home repairs and renovations are already stressful enough. The last thing you need is unnecessary drama from someone who wasn’t even supposed to be part of the equation. Your contractor should make things easier, not more complicated. That means clear communication, respect for your space, and no unexpected characters muddying the waters.
There are plenty of professionals out there who take their job, and your trust, seriously. You just have to know where to look.
Takeaway: Choose a Contractor Who Respects Your Time and Space
Whether you’re fixing a faucet or remodeling your kitchen, trust is everything. If your gut is telling you something’s off, whether it’s a meddling partner or a lack of professionalism, it’s okay to walk away.
At the end of the day, you’re the one writing the check and living with the results. Set your expectations high and do not settle for less. It might be awkward to address at first, but remember, (as with most things) the longer you stay silent, the worse it’s going to get.
Need help finding someone who gets it right the first time? Visit TrustDALE.com to browse vetted, certified home service pros backed by Dale’s $10,000 Make-It-Right Guarantee. No surprise guests. Just solid work from people you can count on.
