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7 DIY Jobs Sellers Shouldn’t Do Without Professionals

By November 26, 2024December 16th, 2024No Comments
A professional in a reflective safety vest writing on a clipboard while another worker in a hard hat uses a power drill on a ceiling in a partially completed room displaying jobs sellers should avoid.
Inspections and repairs done by professionals ensure safety, compliance, and quality that DIY jobs often lack.

Selling a home often involves sprucing it up to make a good impression, and while do-it-yourself (DIY) projects can help cut costs, certain jobs are best left to professionals. Poorly done work can hurt your property’s value, raise red flags in inspections and even lead to costly repairs. Here are essential home improvement tasks you should always call in a professional to handle.

1. Asbestos and Mold Removal

Older homes — especially those built before the 1980s — may contain asbestos in areas like insulation, flooring and walls. Disturbing asbestos releases harmful fibers that can lead to serious health issues.

Similarly, mold growth poses health risks, particularly for people with respiratory issues. Improper mold handling can worsen the problem and increase exposure. Remediation professionals are trained to contain and remove these hazardous materials safely.

2. Roofing Repairs

Roof repairs, even minor ones, are dangerous and complex. Missing shingles or small leaks may seem easy to fix, but without the right materials and skills, you risk worsening the problem. Incorrect or cheap repairs can lead to leaks, poor insulation and expensive structural damage.

Additionally, roof work can be hazardous without the proper safety gear, highlighting the importance of hiring a roofing professional to ensure the work meets safety and quality standards.

3. Electrical Work

Electrical jobs require precision and expertise. DIY electrical work can lead to wiring problems, short circuits and fire hazards. Electrical issues are the second-leading cause of house fires in the U.S., responsible for around 13% of residential fires annually.

If your house’s electrical system isn’t up to code, it may fail inspection and deter potential buyers. Only a licensed electrician can safely and efficiently handle wiring, breaker boxes and circuit upgrades, so leave the sparks up to these professionals.

4. Structural Changes

Foundation issues are the top concern in home inspections, often requiring costly, time-consuming repairs. Space reconfiguration — where walls are removed or added to adjust the flow of the property — can compromise your home’s structural integrity if not done correctly.

Taking down a wall to create an open-concept space might sound appealing, but it’s risky if you don’t understand the structure of your house. Some walls support the entire weight of the building, and removing or altering them could compromise the property’s structural integrity. 

Moreover, unlicensed structural modifications might be flagged during inspections and even reduce your home’s value. Licensed contractors have the knowledge and experience to handle this type of work safely, ensuring the changes are safe, up to code and don’t undermine the stability of your property.

5. Plumbing

While a dripping faucet or a running toilet might be an easy fix, extensive plumbing work isn’t. One small mistake can lead to significant water damage, mold and rot, which can cost thousands to repair. 

For example, improperly installed pipes can lead to leaks that might not be detected until they’ve done serious damage behind walls. Water damage claims from broken pipes, leaky appliances and similar issues can average $10,900.

Save yourself the risk of flooded floors and ruined walls by investing in a qualified plumber for complex projects like pipe installations and bathroom remodels.

6. HVAC Work

Your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is one of the most complex parts of your home, and it’s crucial for both comfort and energy efficiency. HVAC repairs and installations involve complex electrical and gas connections, which are best handled by licensed technicians. 

A poorly installed HVAC unit can lead to higher energy bills, inefficient cooling or heating, and potential safety hazards. In fact, improper HVAC installation can affect the system’s efficiency, reducing it by up to 30% and costing you more in the long run. For anything beyond basic maintenance — such as filter changes — call an HVAC professional.

7. Gas Line Repairs

Working on gas lines is extremely dangerous and requires expertise to avoid leaks, which can lead to explosions of carbon monoxide poisoning. Only a licensed gas plumber has the experience and tools to repair or install gas lines safely. 

Faulty gas appliances lead to hundreds of deaths each year from carbon monoxide exposure. Leave any gas line work to the professionals to ensure the next owner’s safety.

Protect Your Investment by Opting for Professional Service

While DIY home projects can be fun and cost-effective, certain jobs simply aren’t worth the risk when preparing to sell your home. 

Taking on electrical, plumbing, or structural work without the right experience or tools can lead to failed inspections, costly repairs, health hazards or even lives being put at stake. When it comes to these areas, hiring a professional protects your home’s value and ensures the safety of everyone who lives in it now and in the future.

As you prepare your property for sale, consider working with qualified contractors on these complex tasks. Investing in professional help allows you to confidently present your home as safe, sound and ready for its next owner.