9 home improvements that you shouldn’t do yourself
Here at BHG, we love a DIY project. However, there are a few projects and home improvements that you really shouldn’t do yourself if you aren’t a certified professional. Some of these projects require experienced professionals due to their complexity, or simply because it isn’t legal for you to do it yourself. In other cases, getting it wrong and needing to have it fixed could be far more costly than having paid for a professional in the first place.
Without further ado, here at 9 DIY projects and home improvements that you shouldn’t do yourself.
1. Installing a dishwasher
Dishwashers require both water and electrical connections, which is a delicate operation at best. Just pay to have someone install it for you, it’ll be quicker and done according to regulation.
2. Removing old insulation
If you live in an old house built before the ‘80s, then the insulation in the house could be contaminated with asbestos, which poses huge health risks for those who come into contact with it. If you suspect your insulation has asbestos in it, call in the professionals to handle it.
3. Plumbing
Plumbing repairs, installations and other maintenance should only ever be handled by the professionals. Far too many things can go wrong, and getting access to problem points can cause more damage to your property than necessary if attempted by an inexperienced handyman.
4. Installing an air-conditioner
In Australia, all air-conditioning systems need to be installed by a professional who is approved by the Australia Refrigeration Council, as these systems can be dangerous to both you and the environment if mishandled.
5. Removing old walls
Depending on the structure of your home, certain walls may be playing a huge role in keep the roof above your head – literally! Always call in a building professional to assess the walls you want to remove before knocking them down.
6. Installing a gas appliance
Whether it’s a gas cooktop of water heater, you’ll need a licensed gas-fitter to connect the appliance.
7. Roofing repairs
Generally speaking, if a job requires you to get up high, such as on the roof, then it’s best that you don’t attempt it yourself unless you have experience working from heights, and roof repairs.
8. Removing lead-based paint
Lead-based paint is still present in some old home in Australia. As there are quite a few health and safety risks when it comes to dealing with lead-based paint, it may be better to hire someone experienced in lead-paint management.
9. Fixing phone lines
Don’t try to fix a phone line. Telstra is responsible for maintaining and fixing the connections throughout Australia, so call them before you do anything else.
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