Maintaining customer satisfaction is a crucial aspect of any business, but it’s even more important for home repair contractors that have earned the prestigious Diamond Certified award. For DJ Baker Construction, the best way to maintain customer satisfaction is to focus on helping clients find products and services that meet their specific needs. “By taking the time to get to know my customers, I’m able to find applications that allow them to live more comfortably,” says owner Dennis Baker. “From showing them different products to walking them through the pros and cons of certain options, I help them see the bigger picture of what they’re trying to accomplish.”

DJ Baker Construction has been providing handyman and home repair services for residential clients in Sonoma and Marin Counties since 1996. The company has the in-house capabilities to handle everything from minor household repairs to complete bathroom and deck remodels, and it also has the training and equipment to fabricate and install specialized handrails for disabled and elderly customers.

Unlike less experienced home repair contractors that take a “one size fits all” approach to every job, DJ Baker Construction takes a detail-oriented approach that accounts for each client’s goals and lifestyle. “Some of my clients know exactly what they want, and that’s what I give them, but some don’t even know what their options are in terms of repairs or modifications, so I take the time to educate them and customize their projects as much as possible,” explains Mr. Baker. “I utilize my decades of experience to help my clients decide which applications will work best for their needs, which they really appreciate.”

To further differentiate itself from its competition, DJ Baker Construction provides every job with the hands-on expertise of Mr. Baker himself. “From the initial phone call to the finishing touches, all questions, work orders, discussions and decisions come directly through me,” he affirms. “There’s no room for errors or lost messages, so my clients know they’re going to get quality, long-lasting results.”

If you’re a homeowner, consider making minor modifications and adding safety equipment to ensure you live comfortably for years. Whether you’re reaching your golden years or you have an aging parent or loved one who needs extra help, a few modifications can make the difference between safely living at home and having to move to an assisted living facility. “Some people lose their patience and try to make movements faster than they should as they age, which can threaten their safety and ability to easily move throughout their homes,” explains Dennis Baker, owner of DJ Baker Construction in Petaluma. “Thankfully, there are several affordable ways to make homes safer and easier to navigate.”

Some of these measures include the addition of grab bars inside and outside of showers and bathtubs, hand railings in walkways, ramps, and even the removal of step-up areas into various rooms. Households with small children or adults facing dementia can opt for specialized door locks that require a password, drawer and cabinet securing hardware, and anchors that prevent furniture from being tipped over.

Stairs are a big factor in home falls, but Mr. Baker explains that differently sized steps can make a noticeable difference. “Most stairs are 8 inches wide with a 10-inch rise between treads, and it can be harder for some older people to lift their feet that high,” he says. “A handyman can replace these steps with better options. For example, you could choose stairs with a 6-inch rise and a 12-inch tread. That will prevent tripping and make every step more comfortable and safe.”

Knowing your options can help you make better decisions for yourself or a loved one, and finding a good handyman is important for getting the best service. “You should look for a handyman who has the experience and skills to listen to you, observe your needs, and recommend items that make your life easier and safer,” says Mr. Baker. “A handyman’s primary job is providing quality work and necessary products, so that’s exactly what you should expect.”

Q: How soon can you start my project?

A: It depends on my schedule, but I’ll try to start as soon as possible. Every job is important to me, and I treat my clients accordingly. I recognize that most people who call me have an emergency or a pressing need, so I focus on providing fast, efficient service.

Q: What services do you provide?

A: I provide minor household repairs, bathroom and deck remodeling, specialized handrails for the disabled, plumbing repairs, minor electrical repairs, new electrical plug and GFI outlet installation, outdoor lighting, minor roofing repairs and patches, dry rot repair, painting, welding, sheet rock installation, dry wall repair, tapering and texturing, tile work, crown moulding, hardwood floors, disability accessibility improvements, and more.

Q: How do you charge for your services?

A: I usually charge by the hour. It’s hard for me to provide a bid for an entire project unless it’s new construction, because it’s impossible to know what the job will entail. For example, replacing a deck may also require fixing dry rot or water damage. That being said, I can usually give a ballpark estimate so you have an idea of what your project will cost.

Q: Can you give me advice over the phone?

A: Yes, especially when it comes to figuring out a short-term solution to a problem until I can get to your house.