Home inspectors can always spot the work of an amateur compared to a pro. While DIY projects around the home are vastly popular due to access to YouTube tutorials, many homeowners may have gotten overconfident with their DIY skills. While the intention is to save money and bypass waits for overbooked contractors, DIY projects gone wrong can end up costing a homeowner more money and damage in the end.
Here are 4 areas homeowners may want to consider leaving the job for the professionals.
1. Electrical Work
Many homeowners try to DIY the installation of lighting fixtures, ceiling fans, or even a dimmer switch. However, inspectors are observing overload circuit boxes, exposed or incorrect wiring, and improper junction boxes. This faulty wiring can lead to electrocution and house fires. Furthermore, homeowners who attempt their own electrical work could have failed to get the necessary permits which can result in fines and ultimately hold up a home sale.
2. Plumbing
While the “simple” task of changing a faucet or appliance may appear quick and easy, plumbing that is wrongly installed or repaired can cause significant home damage. This includes flooding and eventual wood rot and mold growth, which can affect air quality and human health.
3. Roofing and Decks
Decks and roofing can tend to be some of the highest-priced home items to fix, especially since labor can be more expensive than the materials themself. Yet, it is important to note that DIY deck installations are safety hazards due to the fact that they are often improperly attached to the house and can have loose, insecure handrails. In comparison to professionals, homeowners don’t know the precautions they need to take to stay safe on a roof while making repairs, allowing for another safety concern.
4. Landscape Grading
Gardening DIY projects can appear to be the most doable when it comes to adding landscaping or outdoor elements. This can change water flow around the home. When a house is built the yard is purposefully graded to force water flow away from the home. Continuous changes to the landscape and gradual grading, that are not properly maintained, can cause water to rush around the foundation of a home due to improper draining. As a result, there is a possibility of structural damage or water entering a basement or crawl space.
From Summer 2022 issue of Realtor.Magazine
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