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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a House Repairer / General Maintenance Technician

💰 $45,000 - $70,000 per year

Skilled TradesConstructionFacilities ManagementResidential Maintenance

🎯 Role Definition

A House Repairer, often titled a General Maintenance Technician or Handyman, serves as a versatile and essential skilled trades professional dedicated to the upkeep and repair of residential properties. This individual is the front-line problem-solver, responsible for diagnosing and addressing a wide spectrum of maintenance issues to ensure homes are safe, habitable, and fully functional. The role requires a broad knowledge of multiple trades, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and general construction. Success in this position hinges on technical proficiency, excellent diagnostic skills, and a commitment to providing high-quality service and solutions for homeowners and residents.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Maintenance Assistant or Apprentice
  • Construction Laborer
  • Specialized Trade Apprentice (e.g., Carpenter's Helper, Plumber's Assistant)
  • Self-taught individual with a demonstrable portfolio of DIY projects

Advancement To:

  • Lead Maintenance Technician or Maintenance Supervisor
  • Facilities or Property Manager
  • Specialized Contractor (with additional licensing, e.g., Master Plumber, General Contractor)
  • Small Business Owner (e.g., Handyman or Remodeling Business)

Lateral Moves:

  • Commercial Building Maintenance Technician
  • Construction Site Finisher or Punch-List Technician
  • Home Inspector (with certification)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform a wide range of carpentry tasks, including framing repairs, installing doors and windows, repairing cabinetry, and replacing trim or molding.
  • Execute drywall installation and repair, including patching holes, taping, mudding, texturing, and finishing surfaces to match existing walls.
  • Conduct routine and emergency plumbing repairs, such as fixing leaky faucets and pipes, clearing clogged drains, and replacing toilets or garbage disposals.
  • Address minor electrical issues, including replacing light fixtures, switches, and outlets, as well as troubleshooting basic wiring problems safely.
  • Prepare interior and exterior surfaces for painting and apply paint, stain, and other finishes to maintain the property's aesthetic and protective coatings.
  • Install, repair, and maintain various types of flooring, including vinyl, laminate, tile, and hardwood, addressing issues like cracks, chips, and water damage.
  • Inspect, clean, and perform basic maintenance on HVAC systems, such as changing filters, cleaning coils, and ensuring proper thermostat function.
  • Handle exterior maintenance tasks, including gutter cleaning and repair, siding and roofing patch-ups, and fence or deck repairs.
  • Assemble and install household fixtures and appliances, such as ceiling fans, shelving units, dishwashers, and over-the-range microwaves.
  • Perform weatherization services like caulking windows and doors, installing weather-stripping, and adding insulation to improve energy efficiency.
  • Respond to and resolve emergency repair requests in a timely and efficient manner, often outside of normal business hours.
  • Identify and repair issues with windows and doors, including fixing broken glass, replacing hardware, and ensuring proper alignment and sealing.
  • Conduct preventative maintenance inspections across properties to identify and proactively address potential issues before they become major problems.
  • Repair and maintain major home appliances, diagnosing issues with refrigerators, ovens, washers, and dryers.
  • Perform masonry and tile work, including tuck-pointing brickwork, repairing concrete walkways, and replacing broken or loose tiles in kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Ensure all work performed complies with current building codes, safety regulations, and industry best practices.

Secondary Functions

  • Maintain a detailed and accurate log of all work orders, documenting the tasks performed, materials used, and hours spent on each job.
  • Communicate professionally and effectively with residents, homeowners, or property managers to schedule appointments, explain repair procedures, and provide status updates.
  • Manage and maintain an organized inventory of tools, equipment, and commonly used repair supplies, initiating purchase orders when stock is low.
  • Provide cost and time estimates for repair projects to clients or management for approval before commencing work.
  • Keep the work area clean, safe, and organized, ensuring debris is removed and the property is left in good condition upon completion of a job.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • General Carpentry: Proficiency in framing, finishing, and cabinetry repair.
  • Plumbing Fundamentals: Ability to diagnose and repair common issues with pipes, fixtures, and drains.
  • Basic Electrical Work: Safe handling of minor electrical repairs, including fixtures, switches, and outlets.
  • Drywall & Painting: Skilled in patching, taping, texturing, and applying finishes for a seamless repair.
  • Appliance Troubleshooting & Repair: Knowledge of the mechanics of common household appliances.
  • Flooring Installation & Repair: Experience with tile, vinyl, laminate, and wood flooring.
  • HVAC Maintenance: Understanding of basic heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system upkeep.
  • Tool & Equipment Proficiency: Competent and safe use of a wide range of hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment.
  • Safety Code Compliance: Knowledge of local building codes and OSHA safety standards.
  • Material Estimation: Ability to accurately estimate the quantity and cost of materials needed for a project.

Soft Skills

  • Problem-Solving & Diagnostics: The ability to systematically investigate an issue, identify the root cause, and determine the most effective solution.
  • Customer Service & Communication: A professional and friendly demeanor with the ability to clearly explain technical issues to non-technical individuals.
  • Time Management & Organization: Effectively prioritizing tasks, managing a schedule of multiple jobs, and maintaining organized records.
  • Adaptability: The flexibility to handle a wide variety of tasks and unexpected challenges.
  • Attention to Detail: A commitment to high-quality workmanship and ensuring repairs are done correctly and thoroughly.
  • Self-Motivation & Independence: The discipline to work effectively with minimal supervision.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Certificate from a vocational or trade school.
  • Associate's degree in a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Building Maintenance Technology
  • Construction Management
  • Carpentry, Plumbing, or Electrical Trades

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 2-5 years of documented, hands-on experience in residential maintenance, construction, or a related skilled trade.

Preferred: Experience working within a property management company, for a remodeling contractor, or as an independent handyman with a diverse portfolio of completed projects. Demonstrable experience across multiple trade disciplines is highly valued.

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