Guides

Plain-English help for hiring the right pro in NYC.

How to check a NYC contractor license in 2 minutes

A step-by-step way to confirm that a contractor's license is real, active and in the right name.

Handyman or contractor: who do you need in NYC?

A simple way to decide who to call, based on the size of the job and the trades involved.

Hiring a contractor for a NYC co-op or condo

What your building is likely to ask for, and how to avoid delays before work starts.

What to do if a NYC contractor does a bad job

How to document the problem, try to fix it directly, and file a complaint with the city.

Do I need a licensed contractor in NYC?

When NYC law requires a licensed pro, and how to check a license in two minutes.

Hiring a handyman in NYC: 8 checks before you say yes

A quick checklist to avoid surprises: license, insurance, contract, payment and more.