If you're looking for a handyman in Exeter, one of the first questions you'll have is "how much is this going to cost me?" Fair question - and one that deserves an honest answer.
As someone who runs a handyman business in Exeter, I'm going to give you a straightforward breakdown of what you should expect to pay, what affects the price, and how to make sure you're getting good value.
Typical Handyman Rates in Exeter (2025)
Here's what most handymen in Exeter and Devon charge:
| Rate Type | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hourly rate | £40-£60/hr | After first hour |
| Minimum charge | £50-£80 | Usually covers first hour |
| Half day | £150-£220 | 4 hours work |
| Full day | £280-£400 | 8 hours work |
At Hembury Contracting, we charge:
- £60 minimum (includes callout + first hour)
- £50/hr for additional time
- £25 for half hours
This means a 2-hour job costs £110, and a 3-hour job costs £160. Simple.
What Affects the Price?
Several factors influence what you'll pay:
1. The Complexity of the Job
Hanging a picture? Quick and easy. Fitting a kitchen? That's a proper project. More complex jobs require more skill, more time, and often more tools.
2. Materials Required
Some handymen include basic materials (screws, fixings, sealant), others charge separately. Always ask upfront what's included.
3. Access and Location
Jobs in awkward spaces take longer. If I need to work in a cramped loft or behind heavy furniture, it adds time.
4. Time of Year
Busy periods (spring and pre-Christmas) can mean longer waits. Emergency callouts might cost more.
How to Get the Best Value
Here are my honest tips for getting the most for your money:
Bundle Small Jobs Together
This is the biggest money-saver. If you've got several small tasks:
- Change a light fitting (15 mins)
- Fix a dripping tap (20 mins)
- Put up some shelves (30 mins)
Calling three different tradespeople could cost you £200+. One handyman visit? Probably £85-£110 for everything.
Be Prepared
Have everything ready when the handyman arrives:
- Know exactly what you want done
- Clear the work area
- Have any materials you're providing to hand
Time spent moving furniture or hunting for parts is time you're paying for.
Get Multiple Quotes (But Be Realistic)
For bigger jobs, get 2-3 quotes. But remember: the cheapest quote isn't always the best value. Look for:
- Clear communication
- Good reviews
- Proper insurance
- Realistic timescales
Ask About Multi-Job Discounts
Many handymen (including us) will do a deal if you've got a full day's worth of work. Ask about it.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious if someone:
- Won't give you a rough price before starting
- Asks for full payment upfront
- Can't show proof of insurance
- Has no online presence or reviews
- Quotes significantly below market rate
The Bottom Line
For most small to medium handyman jobs in Exeter, expect to pay somewhere between £60-£200. Bigger projects will obviously cost more.
The key is getting a clear quote upfront, understanding what's included, and working with someone you trust.
Need a quote? Call us on 01392 964094 or request a quote online. We'll give you an honest price with no hidden surprises.
Sam Hembury
Sam is the founder of Hembury Contracting, providing professional handyman services across Exeter and Devon. With years of experience in property maintenance, he shares practical tips to help homeowners tackle common tasks.