Misc. Services

This category covers helpful services that don't fit neatly into a single trade, such as radon testing and mitigation, accessibility and home health equipment, education and training resources, and other specialized support for homeowners. Browse the listings to see what each provider offers. The pros listed on this page can walk you through options.

Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that forms naturally in soil and can build up inside homes, especially in basements. Much of South Dakota is considered to have high radon potential, and long-term exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers. Testing is the only way to know your home's level, and it's simple to do.

The most common approach is sub-slab depressurization, where a pipe and fan draw radon from beneath the foundation and vent it safely above the roofline. Cracks and openings in the foundation are often sealed as part of the process. After installation, a follow-up test confirms the system is working, and periodic retesting helps make sure levels stay low.

Common aging-in-place updates include grab bars, walk-in showers, brighter lighting, lever-style handles, and moving essential living spaces to the main floor. Some homeowners add ramps, stair lifts, or wider doorways for mobility equipment. An occupational therapist or a specialist in accessible design can help identify the changes that matter most for your situation.

Ask for references, read reviews from multiple sources, and confirm the provider carries appropriate insurance and any required licenses or certifications. A reputable company should give you a clear written estimate and explain what's included. Be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics, requests for full payment upfront, or offers that seem too good to be true.

In fall, clean gutters, service your furnace, disconnect hoses, and check weatherstripping before cold weather sets in. In spring, inspect your roof and siding for winter and hail damage, test your sump pump, and service your air conditioner. Changing furnace filters regularly and testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are important year-round habits.

For routine services, a few days to a couple of weeks is often enough, but popular providers can book out further during busy seasons. In South Dakota, spring and fall tend to be especially busy as homeowners prepare for or recover from winter. For urgent safety issues, ask whether the provider offers emergency or priority service.

For larger jobs, collecting two or three quotes is a smart way to understand fair pricing and different approaches. Make sure each quote covers the same scope of work so you're comparing them fairly. The lowest price isn't always the best value, so weigh experience, communication, warranty terms, and reviews alongside cost.

Clear access to the work area, secure pets, and move fragile items out of the way. Write down your questions and any symptoms or concerns you've noticed so you can share them clearly. If the work involves a basement, attic, or mechanical room, make sure the path is open and well lit to save time during the visit.

Local technical colleges, community education programs, and hardware store workshops often offer classes on basic repairs, tool safety, and woodworking. Online tutorials can help with simple projects, but know your limits when it comes to electrical, gas, or structural work. Some homeowners discover an interest that grows into a rewarding career in the skilled trades.