Handvetted and HomeAdvisor both match homeowners with local professionals. The difference is volume versus verification: HomeAdvisor connects your request with several local companies, while Handvetted sends one professional who has passed four checks, including a background screen of every owner.
- HomeAdvisor matches your project with several local professionals, who pay for the connection.
- Handvetted sends one licensed, background-checked professional per request, with a free rematch.
- HomeAdvisor is part of Angi; the two now share a network and reviews.
- Handvetted's four checks: official registry license, background screening, verified 4.5-star ratings, human approval.
- Both cost you nothing as a homeowner.
How HomeAdvisor works for homeowners
You submit your project, and HomeAdvisor matches it with local service companies in its network. Several companies can receive the same request and reach out to you. HomeAdvisor merged with Angi, so profiles and reviews now sit in one network. From your side, expect multiple phone calls and texts after you submit, and plan to compare each company yourself.
How Handvetted works
You describe the project, timeline, ZIP code and budget. Handvetted selects one verified professional and briefs them before contact. Before any business appears, it passes the four checks published on the Handvetted standards page: an active license confirmed through official state registries, background screening of every owner and principal operator, verified ratings of 4.5 stars or higher, and a human reviewer on every application. Not everyone makes it in. If the match is not right, a rematch is free.
Which one fits you
| HomeAdvisor | Handvetted | |
|---|---|---|
| What you get | Several companies contacting you | One verified professional, briefed on your job |
| Vetting | Marketplace network listing | Four checks, including background screening and human approval |
| Your effort | Field calls, compare, decide | Review one introduction |
| If it is not right | Keep searching | Free rematch |
| Cost to you | Free | Free. Always |
What to check on either platform
- Active license for your state and trade, verified by you on the state board's site.
- Certificate of insurance, confirmed with the insurer.
- Recent reviews describing work like yours.
- Written scope, price and warranty before work starts.
If the job follows a storm, read our guide to choosing a storm damage restoration company first.
FAQ
Is HomeAdvisor free for homeowners?
Yes. Homeowners submit projects at no cost; the companies in the network pay for the connections.
Is HomeAdvisor the same as Angi?
HomeAdvisor and Angi merged and now operate as one network with shared profiles and reviews.
Why do several contractors call after I use HomeAdvisor?
Your request can be matched with multiple local companies, each of which pays for the connection and follows up on its own.
What is the main difference between Handvetted and HomeAdvisor?
Volume versus verification. HomeAdvisor sends your request to several companies; Handvetted sends one professional who has passed four checks, and offers a free rematch.
Does Handvetted check licenses through official registries?
Yes. Every license is confirmed through official state registries and re-verified on a regular schedule.
Get Matched
Tell us what you need. We will find your pro. Get Matched.