us Sexual violence & highly sensitive situations contractor made sexual comments • repair person was sexually inappropriate • handyman said sexual things • plumber made creepy remarks • maintenance worker inappropriate comments • service tech sexual harassment • unwanted sexual remarks at home • i need repairs but feel unsafe • i still need access to my property • letting someone into my home feels unsafe • landlord maintenance harassment • property manager contractor harassment • boundary crossing by worker • fear of retaliation from contractor • safety plan for home visit • unwanted sexual attention at home • repair visit made me uncomfortable • relying on them for access • uncomfortable service call

What to do if…
someone you rely on for services or repairs makes sexual comments and you still need access to your home or property

Short answer

Regain control of access first: do not allow them back alone, and arrange repairs through a different person/company or with another adult present.

Do not do these things

Do not let them return to your home “just to finish the job” if you feel unsafe.
Do not meet them alone in a closed space (garage, basement, back room) to “clear the air.”
Do not agree to unannounced visits, vague arrival times, or entry when you’re asleep or in the shower.
Do not delete texts, emails, voicemails, or app messages if you might want to complain or report later.
Do not assume you must “prove” anything before you’re allowed to switch providers or set boundaries.

What to do now

If they’re coming soon, cancel or reschedule immediately. Keep it brief: you’re not available and need a different appointment. If you feel pressured, stop responding and move to written communication.
Route all contact through a company/office or property manager (not the individual). Ask for a different worker and request that the original person not be assigned to your address again.
If you rent or live in managed housing, notify the landlord/property manager in writing. Ask for an alternate maintenance person and for a note on your account that entry requires prior notice and a named worker.
Use a “two-person rule” for any required visit. Have a friend/neighbor with you, or schedule when someone can be present. If you can’t get someone inside, have someone available by phone and nearby.
Make the visit physically safer. Keep doors locked until you verify who is there; stay near an exit; keep your phone on you; avoid giving access to bedrooms or private areas unless the repair requires it; don’t share personal details.
Make a simple record for yourself. Write down date/time, what was said, and any witnesses. Save booking details and any messages. (If you later report or complain, this can help.)
If you feel in immediate danger, call 911. If you’re not in immediate danger and want confidential support, you can contact RAINN (phone or online chat) for help and local resources.
If the person has control over your housing (for example, a landlord, property manager, or maintenance worker), housing-related sexual harassment may be covered by fair housing protections. When you’re ready, you can report housing discrimination to HUD and/or contact DOJ’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative.

What can wait

You do not need to decide right now whether to involve police or file a formal complaint to protect yourself today.
You do not need to craft the “perfect” message—short, firm boundaries are enough.
You do not need to continue the same repair plan if it puts you on edge; switching providers can come first.

Important reassurance

It’s normal to feel conflicted when you still need repairs or access. You’re allowed to set boundaries and change arrangements without debating, explaining, or “earning” that right.

Scope note

These are first steps to stabilise safety and access. If the behavior continues, escalates, or affects your housing situation, you may want specialist support (victim services, tenant support, or legal advice) once you’re in a calmer place.

Important note

This is general information, not legal advice. If you are in danger, call emergency services.

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What to do if…someone you rely on for services or repairs makes sexual comments and you still need access to your home or property