Frequently Asked Questions

We serve all five NYC boroughs — Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Our technicians are dispatched from multiple locations across the city so we can reach you quickly no matter where you are.

Yes. HandyMen NYC holds all required New York City and State licenses for plumbing, electrical, and general contracting. We carry full general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage on every job.

You can request a free estimate by calling us, filling out the form on our website, or sending us a text with photos of the job. For straightforward repairs we can often quote over the phone. Larger projects typically require a brief on-site visit.

We offer service seven days a week, including most holidays. Weekend and holiday appointments are subject to availability, and emergency services are available 24/7/365 with no extra scheduling fees.

For routine work, we recommend booking 3-5 business days ahead, though we often have same-week availability. Emergency services are dispatched immediately. Larger renovation projects should be scheduled 2-4 weeks out.

Every job comes with a minimum one-year workmanship warranty. Specific warranties vary by service — for example, bathroom and kitchen renovations carry a two-year warranty. Manufacturer warranties on parts and materials apply separately.

Absolutely. We're experienced with NYC co-op and condo boards and can provide certificates of insurance, alteration agreements, and any other documentation your building management requires before work begins.

Yes, our licensed plumbers are available 24/7 for emergencies including burst pipes, gas leaks, sewage backups, and major water leaks. We typically arrive within 30-60 minutes anywhere in the five boroughs.

We have extensive experience with the cast-iron and galvanized plumbing found in NYC's pre-war buildings. We can repair, reline, or replace these systems and will advise you on the most cost-effective approach for your situation.

Yes, we install and service both tank and tankless water heaters. Tankless units can be a great fit for NYC apartments where space is limited. We'll assess your gas line capacity and venting options to make sure the installation is safe and up to code.

Low water pressure is common in NYC high-rises and older buildings. We diagnose whether the issue is at your fixtures, your unit's supply lines, or the building's main — and fix it accordingly. Sometimes a simple aerator cleaning is all it takes.

Yes, our plumbers are licensed for gas line installation and repair in New York City. All gas work is performed in compliance with NYC Department of Buildings requirements, and we coordinate inspections as needed.

Shut off the water supply valve closest to the leak — usually under the sink or behind the toilet. If you can't find it, shut off the main valve for your unit. Then call us immediately. Place towels or a bucket to catch dripping water and avoid using electrical outlets near the leak.

Steam heating is our bread and butter — it's still the primary heating system in the majority of NYC's older buildings. We handle everything from air valve replacements to full radiator repiping, and we can usually stop that banging noise in one visit.

Yes, mini-split systems are one of the best cooling solutions for NYC apartments that lack ductwork. We install single-zone and multi-zone systems, handle the electrical hookup, and ensure the outdoor unit is properly mounted per building requirements.

NYC law requires annual boiler inspections for buildings with boilers operating at 15 PSI or higher. Even for residential boilers below that threshold, we recommend an annual tune-up before heating season starts to ensure safety and efficiency.

Yes, we perform oil-to-gas conversions, which are increasingly popular as NYC phases out certain heating oils. The project involves replacing the burner, connecting to the gas main, and decommissioning the oil tank. We handle all permits and utility coordination.

Overheating is a classic NYC problem, especially in older buildings with steam heat. We can install thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) that let you control the temperature in each room. It's a straightforward retrofit that makes a huge difference.

We service, install, and remove window AC units. We recommend a cleaning and inspection at the start of each cooling season. We also offer seasonal install/removal service so you're not wrestling a heavy unit in and out of your window.

Yes, panel upgrades are one of our most common electrical services. Many older NYC apartments still run on 60- or 100-amp panels that can't handle modern appliances. We upgrade to 150- or 200-amp panels and ensure everything meets current NYC electrical code.

We install Level 2 EV chargers for both residential and commercial properties. We handle the electrical supply, dedicated circuit, and mounting. For condo or co-op buildings, we can also prepare documentation for board approval.

In many cases, yes. Our electricians are skilled at fishing wire through existing walls, especially in pre-war plaster-and-lath construction. We can often add outlets, switches, and light fixtures with minimal or no wall damage.

Frequent tripping usually means the circuit is overloaded, though it can also indicate a short circuit or a faulty breaker. Don't just keep resetting it — that's a fire hazard. Call us for a diagnostic and we'll identify the root cause and fix it safely.

Yes, we encounter knob-and-tube wiring regularly in NYC's older buildings. We can safely replace it with modern Romex or conduit wiring. This work often requires a DOB permit and inspection, which we manage for you from start to finish.

We can, though the approach varies depending on the ceiling type. In concrete slab construction, we typically use slim LED retrofit kits or surface-mount fixtures. We'll assess your ceiling during the estimate and recommend the best option.

Snaking uses a rotating cable to break through clogs and is effective for most household blockages. Hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water to scour the inside of the pipe, removing grease buildup, roots, and scale. We'll recommend the right method after assessing your situation.

Warning signs include recurring drain backups, gurgling sounds from multiple drains, sewage odors, or soggy patches in your yard. We use camera inspections to get a clear picture of the pipe's condition without any digging.

Yes, we use high-definition sewer cameras to inspect drain and sewer lines. The camera gives us real-time video of the pipe interior so we can pinpoint cracks, root intrusion, bellied sections, or blockages. You'll get a full report with our findings.

Absolutely. Tree roots are one of the most common causes of sewer line damage in NYC, especially in older neighborhoods with mature street trees. Roots seek out moisture and can infiltrate even small joints or cracks in clay or cast-iron pipes.

Grease is the number one culprit. Even small amounts of cooking oil accumulate over time and harden inside the pipe. In NYC high-rises, this is compounded by shared drain stacks. We recommend periodic maintenance cleaning and avoiding pouring grease down the drain.

Yes, we work with property managers and building supers to diagnose and resolve drain problems that affect multiple units. We can clear main lines, repair shared stacks, and set up preventive maintenance schedules to keep things flowing.

Yes, we handle everything from fixing sticking doors and replacing hollow-core doors with solid ones to installing new frames and hardware. In older NYC apartments, doors are often out of square, and our carpenters know how to get a perfect fit.

Custom storage is one of our most popular carpentry services. We design and build closet systems, built-in bookshelves, pantry organizers, and wall-mounted storage solutions tailored to your space. Maximizing storage is an art form in NYC apartments.

We repair, refinish, and install hardwood floors. Whether you need a few boards replaced, scratches buffed out, or a full sand-and-refinish, we handle it. We're experienced with the oak, maple, and parquet flooring common in NYC homes.

Yes, and we take pride in matching the profiles found in NYC's pre-war and brownstone architecture. We can replicate existing trim, install new crown molding, baseboards, and window casings, or create custom millwork to your specifications.

Sagging or squeaky floors are common in older NYC buildings with wooden joists. We can sister damaged joists, shim subfloor gaps, and secure loose boards to eliminate squeaks. We always investigate the cause to rule out any structural concerns.

We build decks, rooftop platforms, pergolas, and fences. For rooftop decks or structures over a certain size, NYC requires a DOB permit and possibly an architect's sign-off. We manage the entire process including permit applications.

We work with all roofing types common in NYC — flat EPDM and TPO membranes, modified bitumen, built-up tar-and-gravel, asphalt shingles, slate, and metal. We'll recommend the best material for your building type and budget.

Signs include ponding water that doesn't drain within 48 hours, visible bubbling or cracking in the membrane, recurring leaks, or a roof that's more than 20-25 years old. We offer free roof inspections and will give you an honest assessment.

Yes, cornice and parapet repair is critical for NYC brownstones — Local Law 11 requires periodic facade inspections, and deteriorating cornices can trigger violations. We repair, repoint, and waterproof these structures to keep your building safe and compliant.

Often, yes. Many roof leaks are caused by localized damage around penetrations, flashing, or seams. We perform targeted repairs that extend the life of your roof without the cost of a full replacement. We'll be upfront if a replacement is the smarter investment.

We install and repair internal drains, scuppers, and gutter systems for NYC flat and pitched roofs. Proper drainage is critical — standing water is the number one enemy of flat roofs and can cause structural damage over time.

We install reflective cool roof coatings, which can qualify for NYC tax abatements under the Green Roof Tax Abatement program. We also partner with landscaping specialists for living green roof installations. Both options help reduce energy costs.

A typical NYC bathroom renovation takes 2-4 weeks depending on scope. Permit approvals can add time for co-ops and condos. We provide a detailed timeline before starting and keep you updated throughout the project.

If the renovation involves moving plumbing, altering electrical, or changing the layout, you'll need a DOB work permit. Simple cosmetic updates like retiling or replacing fixtures generally don't require a permit. We handle all permit filings and inspections.

Pre-war bathrooms are one of our specialties. We know how to work with plaster walls, original cast-iron plumbing, and the unique floor plans of pre-war NYC buildings. We'll modernize the space while respecting the building's character.

We use a multi-layer waterproofing system including liquid-applied membrane on walls and floors, Kerdi-style membrane in shower areas, and proper pan liner installation. NYC buildings are especially vulnerable to water damage in shared-wall situations, so we don't cut corners here.

Absolutely. We use design strategies like wall-hung vanities, large-format tiles, glass shower enclosures, recessed medicine cabinets, and strategic lighting to make even a 5x7 NYC bathroom feel spacious. We'll walk you through the options during the design phase.

Yes, we design and build ADA-compliant and aging-in-place bathrooms. This includes curbless showers, grab bars, comfort-height toilets, non-slip flooring, and wider doorways. We can also install fold-down shower seats and handheld shower heads.

Kitchen costs vary widely depending on scope. A cosmetic refresh (new cabinet fronts, countertops, backsplash) typically starts around $15,000-$25,000. A full gut renovation with custom cabinets, new appliances, and layout changes usually ranges from $35,000 to $75,000 or more. We provide detailed estimates tailored to your project.

NYC co-ops and condos often have strict renovation rules — limited work hours, mandatory insurance requirements, elevator padding, and construction noise limits. We're experienced with these restrictions and will coordinate with your building manager to ensure full compliance.

Yes, though moving plumbing and gas lines requires DOB permits and adds to the project cost. We handle the permit process and all associated plumbing and gas work. We'll advise you on whether a layout change is worth the investment for your space.

We install quartz, granite, marble, butcher block, solid surface, and laminate countertops. Quartz is our most popular choice for NYC kitchens because it's durable, low-maintenance, and comes in a huge range of colors and patterns.

A cosmetic refresh takes about 1-2 weeks. A full gut renovation typically takes 4-8 weeks depending on the scope, materials lead times, and permit requirements. We'll give you a realistic timeline during the planning phase and keep you informed of progress.

Yes, we install all kitchen appliances including ranges, dishwashers, refrigerators, microwaves, range hoods, and garbage disposals. We ensure proper electrical and gas connections and verify that everything is up to code before calling the job complete.

Our handyman service covers a wide range of tasks — hanging shelves and TVs, assembling furniture, fixing squeaky doors, patching drywall, caulking tubs, replacing light fixtures, installing blinds, and much more. No job is too small.

Absolutely, and we encourage it. We offer half-day and full-day handyman bookings where our tech works through your to-do list. It's the most cost-effective way to tackle several small jobs at once.

Yes, this is one of our most common requests. We patch nail holes, touch up paint, fix minor damage, and handle any repairs needed to get an apartment ready for a new tenant or to reclaim your security deposit.

We offer pre-sale handyman packages that cover paint touch-ups, minor repairs, fixture upgrades, and cosmetic improvements that help your listing show its best. A relatively small investment in fixes can make a big difference at open houses.

Yes, we assemble all types of furniture — IKEA, Wayfair, Restoration Hardware, you name it. We also mount wall units, secure tall bookcases to walls for safety, and can modify flat-pack furniture to fit tricky NYC apartment dimensions.

We install baby gates, window guards (required by NYC law in buildings with children under 10), cabinet locks, outlet covers, radiator guards, and furniture anchors. We'll do a walkthrough and recommend a complete safety plan.

Yes, we use a combination of heat treatment and targeted chemical application for bed bug elimination. Heat treatment is the most effective single-session approach, raising room temperature to levels lethal to all life stages of bed bugs. We include follow-up inspections to confirm eradication.

We use an integrated pest management (IPM) approach — gel bait, boric acid in wall voids, sealing entry points, and removing food and moisture sources. For severe infestations, we may use targeted spray treatments. We schedule follow-up visits to break the breeding cycle.

Rodent control starts with exclusion — sealing every gap larger than a quarter inch with steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing. We then set traps and monitoring stations and remove attractants. NYC's rat problem requires an aggressive, multi-step approach and we're well versed in it.

We prioritize low-toxicity treatments and always discuss safety protocols before starting. Gel baits and bait stations are placed in areas inaccessible to pets and children. For heat treatments, there are no chemical residues at all. We'll advise you on any precautions specific to your situation.

NYC's Housing Maintenance Code requires landlords to keep apartments pest-free. You can file a complaint with 311 or NYC HPD. In the meantime, we can treat your individual unit. We also work with building owners and managers on building-wide treatment plans.

Yes, we offer monthly and quarterly maintenance plans that include inspections, preventive treatments, and exclusion work. Regular maintenance is the most effective way to keep pests out, especially in NYC's dense urban environment where reinfestation pressure is high.

Our locksmiths typically arrive within 20-45 minutes for emergency lockouts, depending on your location and time of day. We operate 24/7 across all five boroughs. We always arrive in a marked vehicle with proper identification.

Yes, we install a variety of smart locks including keypad, fingerprint, and app-controlled models. We'll make sure the lock is compatible with your door type and, if you're in a rental, that it meets your landlord's or building's requirements.

We do both. Re-keying changes the internal pins so old keys no longer work — it's faster and cheaper than replacing the entire lock. Full replacement is recommended if the lock is worn, damaged, or you want to upgrade to a higher-security model.

Yes, our locksmiths can open most residential and commercial safes through manipulation or drilling as a last resort. We work with major safe brands and can also repair or replace safe locks and set new combinations.

We install and repair intercom systems, video doorbells, and buzzer entry systems for residential and commercial buildings. We can also upgrade older buzzer systems to modern video intercom units that connect to your smartphone.

First, call 911 and don't touch anything until police have documented the scene. Once cleared, call us to replace or upgrade your locks immediately. We recommend installing deadbolts, reinforcing door frames, and adding a security bar or chain for extra protection.

We repair refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, ovens, ranges, microwaves, garbage disposals, and ice makers. We work on all major brands including Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, GE, Bosch, Sub-Zero, and Viking.

As a general rule, if a repair costs more than 50% of a replacement and the appliance is more than halfway through its expected lifespan, replacement may be the better investment. We'll always give you an honest assessment and won't push unnecessary repairs.

Our technicians carry a stock of common parts — motors, pumps, valves, thermostats, belts, and heating elements. For less common or brand-specific parts, we'll diagnose the issue on the first visit and return with the right part, usually within 1-2 business days.

Yes, stackable and combo washer-dryer units are common in NYC apartments and we service all major brands and models. We can also handle installation and venting for new units, including ventless dryer setups.

A buzzing noise usually indicates a failing compressor, condenser fan, or evaporator fan. It's not typically an emergency, but you should schedule a repair soon to avoid a complete breakdown and potential food loss. In the meantime, make sure the coils are clean and there's clearance behind the unit.

Yes, we repair and maintain commercial refrigerators, freezers, ovens, fryers, dishwashers, and ice machines for restaurants and food service businesses. We understand that downtime costs money, so we prioritize fast turnaround for commercial clients.

Most single-piece assemblies range from $75 to $250 depending on complexity. Simple items like nightstands or shoe racks start around $50-$75. Medium-complexity pieces like desks, dressers, and TV stands run $100-$200. Complex items like IKEA PAX wardrobes, murphy beds, or closet systems can range from $200-$500+. We quote flat-rate pricing before starting so you always know the cost upfront. Multi-piece discounts are available when you need a full room or apartment assembled.

Assembly time varies by piece: a simple bookshelf or nightstand takes 20-45 minutes, a standard bed frame or desk takes 45-90 minutes, a dresser with multiple drawers takes 60-90 minutes, and complex pieces like IKEA PAX wardrobes or closet systems can take 2-4 hours. Our professional assemblers typically work 2-3x faster than a DIY attempt because they have the right tools and experience with all major brands. We'll give you a time estimate when you book.

Yes — IKEA is our most frequently requested brand. We assemble every IKEA product line including PAX wardrobes, MALM beds and dressers, KALLAX shelving, BILLY bookcases, BESTÅ media units, HEMNES collections, SEKTION kitchen cabinets, and all other IKEA items. Our assemblers have built thousands of IKEA pieces and know the common pitfalls, hardware quirks, and shortcuts that make assembly faster and more reliable.

We assemble furniture from every major brand and retailer including IKEA, Wayfair, West Elm, CB2, Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, Ashley Furniture, Amazon, Target, Walmart, Room & Board, Article, Floyd, Burrow, Joybird, Restoration Hardware, BoConcept, Costco, Home Depot, Bob's Discount Furniture, and many more. If it comes in a box with assembly instructions, we can build it.

Yes, we offer same-day assembly service across all five boroughs, subject to availability. If your furniture was just delivered and you need it assembled today, call us and we'll dispatch the nearest available assembler — often within a few hours. Same-day service is available seven days a week including weekends.

Yes, and we strongly recommend it. We wall-anchor all tall and heavy furniture — bookcases, dressers, wardrobes, shelving units — at no additional charge as part of every assembly. Tip-over accidents are a serious safety risk, especially with children in the home. Our anchoring uses proper wall fasteners appropriate for your wall type, whether it's drywall, plaster, brick, or concrete.

You don't need to be present the entire time, but we ask that you or someone over 18 be available at the start to let us in and show us where the furniture goes, and at the end to inspect the finished work. Many NYC customers give us access through their doorman or building super and check in when the work is done.

Missing parts are common, especially with Amazon and Wayfair deliveries. Our assemblers carry a comprehensive hardware kit with standard cam locks, dowels, screws, bolts, and connectors that fit most brands. For brand-specific proprietary parts, we can help you contact the manufacturer for replacements. If possible, open your boxes and check the parts list before your assembly appointment so we can plan accordingly.

Absolutely. We offer furniture disassembly for moving, labeling all parts and hardware for safe transport. We can also provide the full cycle — disassembly at your old place and reassembly at your new place. This is especially popular for IKEA furniture, murphy beds, and closet systems that are difficult to move fully assembled through NYC hallways, stairwells, and elevators.

Yes, we work in walk-ups throughout NYC, from 3rd-floor East Village walk-ups to 6th-floor Washington Heights apartments. Our assemblers are experienced with assembling in tight spaces and can carry tools up stairs. Note that the furniture itself needs to already be in your apartment — we focus on assembly, not delivery or hauling. If your furniture box is too large for the stairs, we can open and carry individual components up.

To ensure a smooth appointment: have the furniture boxes in the room where the assembled piece will live, clear enough floor space for assembly (at least 8x8 feet is ideal), check that all boxes for multi-box items have arrived, keep the instruction manual accessible, and let your building know to expect our assembler if there's a doorman or security desk. No need to pre-open boxes — we handle everything from unboxing to cleanup.

Yes, full cleanup is included with every assembly. We break down all cardboard boxes, bag up styrofoam and plastic wrap, and take everything with us when we leave. Your space is left clean with only your newly assembled furniture. For buildings with specific recycling or trash disposal rules, we follow your building's procedures.

Yes, and we encourage it — you'll save time and money. We assemble entire rooms and full apartments regularly: bedroom sets (bed, dresser, nightstands, wardrobe), home offices (desk, chair, bookshelf, filing cabinet), living rooms (entertainment center, coffee table, shelving), and more. We offer multi-piece discounts and can typically assemble 3-5 standard pieces in a single visit.

Our assemblers arrive with a full professional toolkit: cordless drill/driver with torque settings, complete bit set (Phillips, Torx, hex/Allen in all sizes), rubber mallet, laser level, stud finder, pliers, wrenches, clamps, protective floor covering, and a comprehensive spare hardware kit. This is far beyond what comes in any furniture box, and the right tools make the difference between a wobbly piece and a rock-solid one.

We can assemble virtually anything that comes as a flat-pack or ready-to-assemble kit. The only items we generally don't handle are built-in cabinetry that requires licensed carpentry permits, gas appliance hookups, or items that require licensed electrical work (like hardwired light fixtures). For those, we have licensed tradespeople on our team who can help under separate service categories.