Considering what other service people charge, $55 doesn't seem out of line for an experienced, capable handyman. I pay $60 for annual dryer vent cleaning, and that takes less than an hour. Sprinkler system inspection and repair is usually upwards of $100-150 because there are always one or two broken heads.
If someone can't climb a ladder and needs help with replacing light bulbs or smoke alarm batteries, ideally there would be a friend or neighbor who's happy to assist. I'd agree that $55 an hour is high for such minor services, although OTOH, those tasks shouldn't take more than 15 minutes to do. On the other-other hand, many handymen have a minimum charge. I can understand them not wanting to drive 20 minutes for a $20 job.
I think shrubbery and tree trimming is the most overpriced service. My lawn maintenance company at first charged $50 to cut back the hedges alongside the garage, then it was $100, then $150.
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