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Common Hazards of DIY Home Repairs and How to Avoid Them

A person in white gloves diligently fixes a pipe, showcasing expertise.
If you’re a rental property investor with handyman skills, you probably handle many of your own property maintenance tasks. While some property maintenance and repairs are safe for a do-it-yourself landlord, others, such as electrical and plumbing work, can be riskier. Without the proper knowledge, you could unintentionally injure yourself or make the problem worse. That’s why it’s crucial for rental property owners to understand the risks involved and learn when to hire a professional.

 

Many rental property owners handle their own property maintenance to save money and time. You might also prefer doing the work yourself to ensure it’s done to your standards. But when it comes to electrical and plumbing repairs, knowing your limits is essential. A simple mistake can lead to significant property damage or personal injury, making it far more costly than calling in an expert.

 

Why Electrical Safety Should Be a Priority for Homeowners

When it comes to electricity, the more you know, the safer you are. Simple maintenance tasks like replacing light bulbs, outlets, and breakers can often be completed quickly and safely. For instance, if the electricity isn’t properly shut off, you could electrocute yourself. In addition to injury, improper electrical repairs can lead to damaged appliances, light fixtures, or even cause an electrical fire.

 

Electrical hazards can also put your tenants at risk. If the work isn’t done correctly, the wiring in your rental property could create a fire hazard. Rather than trying to save money by doing electrical work yourself, it’s often better to hire a licensed electrician to handle repairs and maintenance. This will ensure that your rental property remains safe and hazard-free.

 

When to Call a Plumber for Urgent Rental Property Repairs

While some plumbing repairs are easy enough for DIY landlords to handle, such as replacing a toilet stopper or installing a showerhead, more complex plumbing problems require a professional. If your renter calls about a broken pipe, a backed-up drain, or a malfunctioning garbage disposal, it’s best to call a plumber.

 

Attempting to fix major plumbing issues yourself can lead to water damage, which can be expensive to repair. Unchecked water leaks can ruin floors, walls, and ceilings, resulting in even bigger problems. To avoid costly repairs and water damage, it’s essential to hire a professional plumber for urgent or complicated repairs.

Even if you aren’t facing an urgent situation, sometimes calling an electrician or plumber is still the right choice. Although it will cost you more than if you did the work yourself, it’s important to remember that hiring a professional comes with valuable benefits.

 

Professionals typically carry the right insurance, have the proper tools and equipment for every job, and can complete the work more quickly and efficiently. It might be best to hire someone to handle all the electrical and plumbing work your rental property needs.

To avoid the hassle of finding a maintenance team, look no further than Real Property Management Beacon for professional services in Norwich and nearby. Contact us online or call 603-448-8808 for more information.

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