Plumber/Electrician Recommendation (Cape Coral, Port Charlotte: contractor, living, moving to)

[jshugart]

Hi All,
Back where I came from before this week moving to Port Charlotte, I had an 83 yr old spry great guy who did all my plumbing and electrical needs at his leisure. His rates went up to $65 for 1st hr, then $35/hr after that. We became friends and knew each other's family info, etc. He was wonderful and could do anything and do it quality well and was very reasonable. He could retire but enjoyed it so much that his wife wanted him to keep doing it. He was a rare find.

So do you have any rec's for my plumber and electrician around here or do they all charge like $100 for 1st hr and $80/hr thenafter. I haven't even made any calls yet. Some stuff I can do myself.

Appreciate the advice.
Jim
Ps Got my kayak trailer by Continental from Island Coast Trailers over in Cape Coral....Jim is great guy and his son Casey Ok as well and learning the trade. Then went to the trailer accessory installing guy (for electrical wiring connectionon) the other side of Fort Meyers.....also did quality work.

[PCHI]

Back where you came from a 83 yo guy with skills could do stuff like that with no issue. Here its a crime. The county has made it impossible for a retired or small fix it guy to exist. Everything short of mowing your lawn must be professionally licensed. Nonsense, but it is the reality of the situation. You will need to call a contractor for any electrical or plumbing work and pay the piper. BTW, hire a handyman and the county can fine you also. I dont like it or endorse it but its how this area functions.

[JERSEY MAN]

I just had a dock and boat lift put in. The electrician they recommended was Livingston Electric from Port Charlotte. The rate was 65 per hour. Don't know if that's good or bad for Charlotte County. I'm spoiled in NJ, my friend who is a licensed charges me 25 an hour on his off day as long as I have cold beer and a good cigar for him when he's done.