The Handy Standard
We don't just list contractors. Every pro on our platform passes a rigorous multi-step vetting process — because your home deserves better than a gamble.
100%
Background checked
$1M
Minimum liability coverage
<5%
Application approval rate
4.9★
Average platform rating
Rigorous by design
Our 6-Step Vetting Process
Less than 5% of applicants make it through. That's not a bug — it's the point.
Identity Verification
Every applicant submits government-issued ID. We cross-reference against national identity databases before any application advances.
Criminal Background Check
Multi-state criminal history search covering felonies, misdemeanors, and sex offender registries. Updated annually for active pros.
License & Certification Review
Trade-specific licenses (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing) are verified against state licensing boards. Expired licenses trigger automatic suspension.
$1M Liability Insurance
All active pros carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in general liability coverage. Certificates of insurance are reviewed and kept on file.
Skills Assessment
Category-specific competency review including portfolio evaluation, reference checks, and in some markets, a supervised test job.
Ongoing Performance Monitoring
Real-time response rate tracking, client satisfaction scoring, and complaint review. Pros below threshold are placed on probation or removed.
Your protection
$1M Liability Coverage — Minimum
Every active pro on The Handy Shop carries a minimum of $1,000,000 in general liability insurance. We verify certificates before activation and require annual renewal. If something goes wrong on the job, you're covered.
Transparency Badge
What every verified pro displays
Criminal Background Check
Multi-state, updated annually
$1M Liability Insurance
Certificate on file
License Verified
State board confirmed
Skills Assessed
Category-specific review
Performance Monitored
Real-time response tracking
Our commitments to you
The Handy Shop Guarantees
These aren't aspirations. They're the floor — the minimum standard every interaction on our platform must meet.
Transparent Pricing
Every quote is itemized. No hidden fees, no surprise charges. The price you approve is the price you pay.
24-Hour Response Guarantee
A matched pro will contact you within 24 hours of your request — or we escalate your job to our priority queue at no extra cost.
Satisfaction Promise
If the work doesn't meet the agreed scope, we coordinate a resolution at no additional charge. Your satisfaction is non-negotiable.
Verified Reviews Only
Every review on our platform is tied to a confirmed completed job. No anonymous posts, no unverified ratings.
Dedicated Support
Real humans available by email and phone. We don't hide behind chatbots when something goes wrong.
Quality Workmanship
Pros are evaluated on completed work quality. Repeat complaints result in permanent removal from the platform.
We Remove Pros. Permanently.
Any pro who receives a substantiated complaint for unsafe work, unprofessional conduct, or fraudulent activity is immediately suspended and permanently removed from the platform. No second chances for serious violations. We protect our community first.
Ready to experience the standard?
Get matched with a vetted, insured, background-checked pro in your area today.