0800 Handyman
Franchise Prospectus.
Introduction.
Those with the drive and determination to run their own business now have the unique opportunity to share in the success of 0800 HANDYMAN. Franchises are now available providing the chance to become a self-employed 0800 HANDYMAN, enjoying the benefits of independence, but with extensive support and guidance, to build a great future, and fulfil a burning ambition.
There are two types of business available. Our Metro franchise is specifically designed for heavily urbanised areas, using a motor scooter to make travelling through traffic congestion ultra efficient. Alternatively, for areas outside a large town centres you can choose to operate using a van.
If you have practical skills, sound commercial aptitude, a bright attitude and share our passion for excellent customer service then you could be awarded a 0800 HANDYMAN franchise. You will own the business, being responsible for it’s efficient management and is growth, but we’ll be with you all the way, providing comprehensive administrative and marketing support and keeping you focused on maximising it’s success.
The following pages describe the structure and potential of a 0800 Handyman franchise and explain the support that our franchise partners enjoy. Included are answers to typical questions that you may have. However, the best way to find out whether a 0800 Handyman franchise is the business opportunity that will suit your ambition is to arrange an informal meeting with us. To arrange this simply complete and send the Notification of Interest form, we’ll then contact to arrange a convenient time.
- The No. 1 and original handyman network
- Be your own boss
- Excellent training and ongoing support
- 45 years of franchising experience behind you
- Home based mobile business
- Growth market sector
- Good cash flow
- State of the art call management and accounting software.
The Service.
We've created an innovative business model. Our focus is firmly on delivering service excellence - we aim to impress customers every time to encourage the commendations that are critical to all successful businesses. Courtesy, professionalism and dependability are the cornerstones of the service, which all franchisees will subscribe to.
The service is designed to deal with small repairs and minor maintenance tasks. The list opposite shows sample of what our franchisees do.
Franchisees working in metropolitan areas ride Piaggio MP3 scooters, to quickly get from job to job. This isn't just a novelty, it is key to maximising business efficiency. Traffic congestion and parking difficulties severely restrict the productivity of traditional van based handyman services, but our scooters, fitted with 3 wheels for extra ride comfort and panniers that carry a full selective range of tools, easily overcome this. Travel time is kept to a minimum so that delays are avoided, it's economic to run and the maximum number of jobs per day can be carried out. So, three important aims are fulfilled; customers are impressed, costs are kept to a minimum and earning potential is enhanced.
You can choose to use a van or a scooter, wherever your Territory is located. In smaller towns and rural areas a van will probably be the best option. Just like the scooter, the van is fully equipped and fitted to enable franchisees to effectively tackle every type of minor property repair and maintenance task. However it has the obvious advantage of greater carrying capacity and of being able to transport materials.
It is quality of service that sets 0800 HANDYMAN apart. The ability of customers to select 1 hour appointment times, the professional manner and attitude of our operators, our efficient method of working, our workmanship guarantee and our after sales service all combine to impress customers, and generate repeat business.
Most jobs are completed within a couple of hours. The service is not designed to undertake long term projects. A full workmanship guaranteed is offered.
Plumbing
- Plumbing in sinks
- Changing taps
- Fixing leaks
- Repairing cisterns
- Installing washing machines
Electrical
- Replacing lights
- Replacing and moving sockets
- Replacing extractor fans
Fixing
- Hanging pictures
- Fitting shelves
- Hanging doors
- Assembling flat pack furniture
- Changing locks
- Fitting curtain rails
- Wall mounting plasma screens
- Repairing sash cords
- Mending fences
Decorating
- Painting
- Tiling
- Renewing old grout
- Re-sealing baths and worktops
- Make good damaged plaster/paintwork
Market.
Outsourcing chores, by both householders and businesses, is on the increase. Research conducted recently by Gumtree.com established that the dislike of household chores and lack of time due to longer working hours are contributing to a growing trend for specialists to be hired for dealing with household tasks. One of the most common of these was found to be general repairs and maintenance. And to prove the point the DIY retailers have spotted this trend, so a number are now offering 'Fit for You' services to their customers (that's an opportunity we plan to exploit).
At the same time, customers have become very selective, searching out contractors which are trustworthy, reliable and professional in their approach. 0800 HANDYMAN has designed its service precisely with these requirements in mind - smart image, uniformed, vetted and trained handymen displaying identification badges, transparent and sensible prices, prescribed work procedures, health & safety compliance and workmanship guarantees are the credentials that attract customers to 0800 HANDYMAN.
0800 HANDYMAN franchisees therefore target particular types of householder, primarily professional couples, dual income families, single women and the retired.
A significant volume of business will be secured from businesses, particularly letting agents and small companies that don't have on-site maintenance facilities. These become regular customers, being impressed by the flexibility, resourcefulness and professionalism of the service.
The potential for the service is substantial. Just think of all the small jobs that regularly need doing around the home, or in an office. 0800 HANDYMAN caters for all of these, and so franchisees have the opportunity to build up a portfolio of loyal, repeat customers; any time that a small repair is needed or an item needs assembly or fixing they simply “Just Click Or Call Our Name™”
Support that's available.
The success of 0800 HANDYMAN franchisees is based on the talent and endeavour of the people we appoint combined with the quality of the support we offer. 0800 HANDYMAN franchisees benefit from being in a partnership in which we have a vested interest in the success of their business. So, at the beginning we ensure that they receive effective technical and business training and on an on-going basis we provide comprehensive business support and guidance to help maximise the chance of success. This is how we help our franchisees:
Dedicated support team.Our highly experienced team is available at all times to provide advice and guidance on all aspects of the business, from tricky jobs you're dealing with to administrative and business development issues. Our role is to help you keep your business on track, help you to make it as efficient as possible and ensure you keep striving towards achieving your goals.
Call centre. We will answer customer calls on your behalf and book jobs into your daily schedule. So, no need to worry about missing a call when you're driving or involved with a job, calls from your customers will always be professionally answered. We'll schedule your jobs using our purpose designed Works management system, allocating to make allowance for job durations and travel time.
Preferential supplier terms. We use our purchasing power to negotiate the best terms available for items such as scooters and van leases, insurance, and materials, and we pass the full benefit onto franchisees. This helps franchisees to contain costs and enhance profitability.
Networking. One of the great benefits of being a franchisee is being part of a network. There are plenty of opportunities to liaise with fellow franchisees and share information and experiences. Periodic meetings and training sessions may be organised and on an on-going basis franchisees communicate with each other using our intranet facilities., covering subjects such as new products, new marketing techniques and tips on dealing with tricky tasks.
A brand that stands out. 0800 HANDYMAN is a uniquely descriptive brand name. Not only does it make clear what we do, it also tells customers how to contact us. So, it has that essential quality that all strong brand names need; memorability.
Marketing that delivers. We know how to get the phones ringing. The 0800 HANDYMAN franchise package doesn't simply give you advertisement templates and a supply of leaflets with an expectation that you'll manage your own marketing programme. Our approach is a bit different. We manage and deliver a marketing programme for your business, funding activity where appropriate and often also making the necessary arrangements on your behalf. Web directory advertising is fundamental but in addition when appropriate we may arrange periodic door to door campaigns, direct mail targeting businesses and make available promotional tools. We'll supply the stationery that's required. Importantly, you'll benefit from the dynamic corporate identity that 0800 HANDYMAN has created, particularly the van livery design which is a real headturner.
The most successful franchisees will however be those that get fully involved with implementing the central marketing programme and supplement it with other activity.
About you.
It's very important that we are both sure that this is the right opportunity for you. Success in running an 0800 HANDYMAN franchise will not just be about your ability to carry out repair work. More important is character and attitude. You need to be self-motivated, disciplined and display high levels of enthusiasm and energy. Being personable, with good people skills is also a quality that we look for. And, you will need to be reasonable capable with the use of a computer.
Its important to understand that although you are running a business with a proven track record and with the support and guidance of an experienced, committed team it is your business and only you will be responsible for how it performs.
The costs.
The total amount that is needed to buy a 0800 HANDYMAN franchise is – £17,500 plus vat (a large proportion of which you claim back). This fee allows for training, tools and equipment and the initial down-payment on the finance lease for the scooter. In addition you'll need working capital to pay your living expenses while the business is in its development stage. This will vary depending on your circumstances.
The banks, subject to status, will lend up to 70% of the total amount required. Support through the Enterprise Finance Guarantee Scheme may also be available.
Frequently asked questions
Here are the answers to some of our most commonly asked questions.
A: No, the Piaggio MP3 has a 125cc engine and so an unrestricted motorbike license is not required. However, you do need to have passed the CTB course and we require that you have passed the restricted motorbike test. This usually involves attendance on a 5 day course. If you have a full unrestricted motorbike licence, or prefer to obtain one, you may choose an MP3 with a 250cc or 400cc engine.
A: Yes, but we would advise against it, particularly in the densely populated inner M25 area. The level of traffic congestion and difficulties with parking mean that the ability to complete a sufficient number of jobs per day may be compromised. Also, a van obviously costs more to run. Outside of the M25 we do expect to operate with vans.
A: Specialist skills are not necessary, but you will need to be practical and enjoy DIY. 0800 Handyman will put you through a technical training course where you will develop and perfect your practical skills, and give you the required certificates to undertake PAT electrical tests. At the end of the course you will be fully equipped to meet all of the plumbing, electrical, carpentry and assembly tasks that will typically arise.
A: Yes, you must be fully dedicated to the business, it cannot be operated on a part-time basis.
A: A key benefit of the 0800 HANDYMAN franchise package is that you will be supported by a comprehensive marketing programme, much of which will be funded from the royalties you pay. Advertisements will be placed on your behalf on Yell.com and similar web directories, intensive door to door leafleting and direct mail will periodically be organised when appropriate and we'll use our PR experts to get publicity about you and your 0800 HANDYMAN business. But to ensure the call rate builds you will have to play a part, so you will be expected to get involved in local promotional schemes. We'll design and help organise these but the effectiveness will depend on your level of commitment.
A: Possibly. It will depend on the circumstances. We would need to be assured that you will observe the essential disciplines that are key to 0800 HANDYMAN - we're confident at we could help you build a more successful business but conforming to a prescribed system is a concession that you would be required to make.
A: The geographic size of 0800 HANDYMAN territories varies because it is the number of houses and businesses that determines the potential. We have designed the franchise territories to offer equivalent potential, each comprising a minimum of 10,000 privately owned households, excluding council rented. We’ve based this on our experience, but it also acknowledges that productivity is the key to profitability. So, we want to minimize travel time to maximize the number of jobs carried out each day within the territory. Our marketing support will help you achieve the level of market penetration that this requires.
A: The complete training course has a duration of 5 weeks. This ensures we are able to cover all key aspects of how to provide the 0800 Handyman service. The course comprises 4 weeks of technical training – an intense programme that provides expert tuition on all aspects of the handyman service range that will vary in length depending on your existing skills – followed by a week at our Head Office for training on business administration and development. At the end of the course you will have gained the necessary hands-on practical expertise to handle the technical and administrative demands of the business, and to competently manage the business to maximize its earning potential.
A: As a business owner the rewards will be directly reflect the effort that is applied. Obviously there are limitations but it really is up to you. Key will be the hours you're prepared to put in, the contribution you make to marketing your business, your ability to trade up to maximise the revenue from each job and the quality of service you provide. So, it's not possible to give a reliable answer to this question. However, we will provide illustrations of typical income levels based on the achievement of different volumes of business.
The costs.
The total amount that is needed to buy a 0800 HANDYMAN franchise is £17,500 plus vat (a large proportion of which you claim back). This fee allows for training, tools and equipment and the initial down-payment on the finance lease for the scooter. In addition you'll need working capital to pay your living expenses while the business is in its development stage. This will vary depending on your circumstances.
The banks, subject to status, will lend up to 70% of the total amount required. Support through the Enterprise Finance Guarantee Scheme may also be available.
Our Credentials.
0800 HANDYMAN Limited has been operating successfully in London since 2001. It is owned by the Zockoll Group, the UK's most experienced franchise company. In 1963 it's Chairman, Jim Zockoll, set up Dyno-Rod, the first service franchised businesses in the UK. This market leading business was sold to British Gas in 2004.
The 0800 HANDYMAN management team includes Steven Zockoll and Clive Smith, both former Directors of Dyno-Rod, and Paul Geoghegan, who has held senior positions in several leading businesses, and has run an 0800 HANDYMAN franchise.
Dyno-Rod has the unique status of being a generic brand, being synonymous with providing a professional drain cleaning service. It successfully expanded to include plumbing and locksmith services within its range. Its service network comprises over 150 franchisees and over the years many have prospered significantly.
The Zockoll Groups involvement with 0800 Handyman started in 2004, when it invested in the business, providing it with funding and direction for its development strategy.
You can see therefore that we have considerable expertise in managing and developing franchised service networks. We know what makes a successful handyman business and what doesn’t. We understand the challenges that franchisees face and have the knowledge and experience to provide the most appropriate guidance for dealing with those challenges.
0800 Handyman franchisees have access to this experience on a continual basis. We see ourselves as ‘guardian angels’, steering, advising, supporting and motivating franchisees towards success as business owners. The reason is simple – if our franchisees are successful we are successful.
If you wish to find out more and take things further then why not fill in our NOTIFICATION OF INTEREST form here.
