What to Charge? A Practical Guide to Pricing Handyman Services in New Zealand

Pricing handyman services in New Zealand means understanding your costs, skillset, and local market expectations. This friendly and practical guide offers key tips to help handyman professionals set fair, competitive prices that clients trust and appreciate.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Calculate Your Full Business Costs

Include tools, transport, materials, insurance, and your labour time when setting prices.

For example, Auckland handymen often face higher operational costs than those in smaller towns like Nelson.

Comprehensive cost knowledge is essential for sustainable pricing.

2. Research Local Market Rates

Check competitor pricing on platforms like Yada, TradeMe, and local classifieds.

Prices typically vary regionally-Wellington sees higher rates than many provincial areas.

Understanding your market allows you to price competitively.

3. Offer Clear Labour and Fixed Pricing

Set hourly labour rates alongside fixed prices for typical handyman jobs.

A Christchurch handyman might charge an hourly rate of $60-$90 with set fees for jobs like fence repairs.

Clear pricing structures build trust and reduce confusion.

4. Include Material and Replacement Costs

Quote for materials separately or transparently include them in your overall pricing.

Nelson specialists often source locally to keep costs competitive.

Clients appreciate clarity on material charges.

5. Charge for Travel and Setup Time

Factor in travel time and setup when visiting clients, especially in remote locations.

Wellington handymen commonly include these considerations in quotes.

Weirdly enough, these ‘hidden’ times can add significant value to your service.

6. Apply Emergency and After-Hours Fees

Charge higher rates for urgent or outside-business-hours jobs.

Auckland handymen usually add surcharges for weekend or late-night services.

Clients expect to pay extra for prompt, flexible service.

7. Showcase Your Experience and Certification

Highlight your training, certifications, and years of experience.

An Auckland handyman with accredited qualifications can confidently charge premium fees.

Clients value trusted and professional providers.

8. Gather and Promote Testimonials

Ask happy clients for reviews and promote these on Yada and social media.

Testimonials from Christchurch handymen have helped grow their businesses.

Word-of-mouth is particularly impactful in Kiwi communities.

9. Advertise Across Multiple Platforms

List your services on Yada, TradeMe, and local directories for greater exposure.

Yada’s no-lead or success fees mean you keep full earnings and can price honestly.

Mobile-friendly platforms make client interactions and bookings seamless.

10. Provide Clear, Personalised Quotes

Use Yada’s chat and calls to understand job details and offer custom pricing.

A Dunedin handyman adjusts quotes based on specific property needs.

Personalised communication builds trust and repeat business.

11. Avoid Undervaluing Your Service

Focus on quality workmanship and dependability instead of the lowest price.

Fairly priced Wellington handymen retain loyal clients and steady work.

Clients appreciate honest, value-based pricing.

12. Review and Adjust Pricing Annually

Revisit pricing regularly to reflect changes in costs, skills, and market trends.

Yada’s ratings and client feedback help inform smart pricing changes.

Consistent reviews help maintain business competitiveness and profitability.

13. Build Strong Referral Networks

Work with real estate agents, property managers, and local businesses for ongoing referrals.

An Auckland handyman expanded client base through trusted partnerships.

Strong networks support steady work and bolster your pricing.