Why You Should Think Twice Before Hiring a Handyman Through a Marketplace

In today’s convenience-driven world, it’s tempting to tap an app, scroll a few profiles, and hire a handyman from a marketplace. It feels quick and efficient—until it’s not.

At Triangle Services, we’ve been called in many times to fix what marketplace contractors left behind—unfinished repairs, incorrect installations, or shortcuts that led to bigger problems.

Here’s why marketplaces aren’t the reliable solution they appear to be:

1. You Don’t Know Who’s Actually Showing Up

Marketplace apps match you with whoever is available, not necessarily the right person for the job. There's no guarantee you’ll get someone with the right experience—or even someone employed by the company you think you’re hiring. Background checks vary or not required (Thumbtack for example), and accountability is minimal.

In contrast: With a vetted local provider, you know exactly who’s coming to your door, and what they’re qualified to handle.

2. There’s No Long-Term Relationship

Most marketplace contractors are there for one-off gigs. They’re not invested in your property, your tenants, or your long-term success. That means no continuity, no service history, and no real incentive to go an extra mile.

With a trusted local partner: You build a relationship with professionals who know your property and can prioritize preventative care—not just emergency band-aids.

3. Cut Corners Lead to Bigger Problems

We’ve been called in countless times to fix what a marketplace hire didn’t do right the first time—improper installations, plumbing “fixes” that failed in a week, electrical shortcuts that violated code. These mistakes cost you more time and money than hiring a qualified professional from the start.

4. You’re Not Saving as Much as You Think

Sure, the app might show a low hourly rate. But the final invoice often balloons with fees, extended time due to lack of experience, or worse—having to redo the work. Cheap labor that fails is far more expensive than quality work done right the first time.

5. Liability and Insurance Concerns

Marketplace contractors may not carry adequate liability insurance, leaving you vulnerable to potential damages or accidents during the job. With local, insured professionals like Triangle Services, you have peace of mind knowing that any unexpected incidents are covered, protecting both your property and your investment.

What’s the Alternative?

Build relationships with local, insured, and accountable maintenance professionals. Look for teams that offer consistent staff, clear communication, and a track record of reliability. At Triangle Services, for example, we prioritize proactive maintenance, clear documentation, and personalized care for each property we touch. We don’t just check boxes—we solve problems.

If you're a property manager looking for a reliable maintenance partner, we’re here to help. Contact us at 919-229-9534 or visit www.tsrdu.com to learn more about how we can help your manage your properties.

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