When getting your home ready to sell, many homeowners opt to tackle home repairs themselves to save money. While smaller projects can be handled by a handy homeowner, there are certain repairs that should never be attempted without the right expertise, tools, and training. Electrical work, plumbing, roofing, and structural repairs can pose safety risks, lead to code violations, and result in costly problems if done incorrectly. Before embarking on a DIY repair journey, consider whether the money saved is worth the potential risks to your home and potential sale.
Start with permits before you pick up a tool
One crucial step that is often overlooked in DIY projects is obtaining the necessary permits. Before starting any significant work, check with your local building department to determine if a permit is required and make sure to secure it before beginning the project. Failure to obtain permits can lead to complications during a home sale, potentially lowering your sale price or even exposing you to legal issues post-closing. It’s always more cost-effective and less stressful to get the permit upfront than to deal with the consequences later on.
In some states, sellers are legally obligated to disclose any unpermitted work to potential buyers, which can have negative implications. Making sure you have the necessary permits in place can save you from headaches down the road.
>>Read: Do You Need a Building Permit?
What inspectors see
It’s a common misconception that only major projects require permits, but even seemingly minor work can lead to significant issues. Jennifer Killebrew, CEO of Metro Code, LLC, warns that unpermitted work, no matter how small, can cause problems during a home sale and result in costly retroactive corrections. It’s always wise to check with your local building department before starting any project to avoid complications later on.
The risk of non-disclosure
Even if you hire a general contractor to handle the work, the obligation to disclose any unpermitted work doesn’t go away once the project is completed. Before starting any project, make sure to research whether your state requires disclosure of unpermitted work to avoid potential issues down the line. Jason Lajeunesse, President of River Birch Builders, emphasizes the importance of disclosing all work done on your property to prevent any surprises during a home sale.
If you’re uncertain about whether to DIY a repair or not, consulting with a contractor early on can help you determine which aspects of the project you can realistically handle yourself. Seeking professional advice upfront can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
Miguel Silva and Adam Bennett of Modern Touch Contracting Team recommend being transparent about your intentions with a contractor. By being open about your DIY plans and seeking guidance from professionals, you can benefit from their expertise and ensure the project is completed correctly.
1. Electrical work
Electrical work is one area where homeowners should proceed with caution. While simple tasks like changing a lightbulb are manageable, more complex tasks like working with electrical boxes, installing fixtures, or dealing with wiring should be left to professionals. Incorrect electrical work can lead to shock hazards, fire risks, and other safety issues. It’s essential to know your limits and call a professional if you’re unsure about any electrical project.
Bryan Gibbs of Inspector Gibby highlights the dangers of DIY electrical work and emphasizes the importance of knowing when to call in a professional to avoid serious hazards.
2. Plumbing
Plumbing is another area where DIYers should proceed with caution. Mistakes in plumbing repairs can lead to leaks, burst pipes, and water damage, especially if the issues go unnoticed in hidden areas of the home. Before attempting any plumbing work, it’s advisable to consult a licensed plumber to ensure the job is done correctly and to avoid costly repairs later on.
Paying for professional guidance upfront can save you money in the long run by preventing further damage and ensuring the repair is done correctly.
3. Full bathrooms remodels
While a full bathroom remodel may seem like a DIY project, it involves multiple specialized trades, including plumbing, electrical work, and finish carpentry. Ensuring all these systems work together correctly and comply with building codes is crucial. Mistakes in a bathroom remodel can be costly, especially if you’re preparing to sell your home. It’s best to hire professionals for such complex projects to avoid potential issues.
4. Foundation and crawl space repairs
Foundation and crawl space repairs are serious projects that require specialized tools and training. Incorrectly addressing foundation issues can compromise the structural integrity of your home and lead to more significant problems. It’s essential to partner with professionals to ensure these critical repairs are done correctly the first time to avoid costly mistakes.
5. Roof replacement or repairs
Roofing is a technically challenging and physically dangerous task. While DIY roof repairs may seem cost-effective, mistakes in placement or installation can lead to more significant issues down the line. It’s best to leave roofing projects to qualified professionals to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
6. Replacing siding
Although siding replacement may appear straightforward, it requires skill and attention to detail to ensure proper installation. Incorrectly installed siding can lead to water intrusion, energy inefficiency, pest problems, and structural damage over time. Working with a licensed professional for siding replacement and exterior additions is crucial to avoid potential issues.
How to decide whether you should DIY a home repair
When considering whether to DIY a home repair, it’s essential to evaluate your experience, the need for permits or licensed professionals, safety risks, potential damage to your home, visibility during the selling process, and the cost of correcting any mistakes. Seeking professional guidance can help you determine which aspects of a project you can handle yourself and which are best left to professionals.
Know when to call a pro
Partnering with licensed professionals for home repairs can provide peace of mind and ensure the job is done correctly. Before embarking on a DIY repair project, take the time to assess the risks and benefits of DIY versus hiring a professional. In many cases, the cost of getting it right the first time is far less than the cost of fixing mistakes later on, especially when it comes to selling your home.
Annie Higbee, Broker of Down Home Maine Real Estate, stresses the importance of focusing on essential repairs like foundation, roof, electrical, plumbing, and windows before tackling cosmetic upgrades. Ensuring the structural integrity of your home is maintained should be a top priority to preserve resale value.
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