15 DIY Home Repairs That Could Land You in A&E

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In the age of YouTube tutorials and Pinterest hacks, many of us are tempted to tackle home repairs ourselves. While DIY can save money and be rewarding, some jobs are best left to the professionals. Attempting certain repairs without proper knowledge or tools can lead to serious injuries or even life-threatening situations. From electrical shocks to falls from heights, the risks are real and often underestimated. As a handyman who’s seen his fair share of DIY disasters, I’m begging you — call a pro if you don’t have the right tools, skills, and experience.

Rewiring Your Home

Electrical work is notoriously dangerous for amateurs. Faulty wiring can cause electric shocks, fires, or even electrocution. Even seemingly simple tasks like replacing a light fixture can go wrong if you’re not familiar with proper safety procedures and local building codes. It’s best to leave electrical work to certified electricians.

Removing Asbestos

Many older homes still contain asbestos, a hazardous material once commonly used in construction. Disturbing asbestos can release harmful fibres into the air, potentially causing serious lung diseases. Asbestos removal requires special equipment and training, and should only be done by licensed professionals.

Fixing Your Boiler

Boilers are complex systems that can be dangerous if mishandled. Incorrect repairs can lead to gas leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning, or even explosions. Boiler repairs should always be carried out by Gas Safe registered engineers to ensure your home’s safety.

Repairing Your Roof

Working on a roof carries a high risk of falls, which can result in severe injuries or death. Additionally, improper repairs can lead to leaks, structural damage, and mould growth. Unless you’re trained and have proper safety equipment, it’s best to hire a professional roofer.

Cutting Down Large Trees

Felling trees might look straightforward, but it’s actually a complex and dangerous task. Trees can fall unpredictably, causing injury or property damage. Chainsaws, often used in tree removal, are also extremely dangerous tools in untrained hands. Leave tree removal to certified arborists.

DIY Plumbing Beyond Simple Fixes

While unclogging a drain or replacing a tap washer is usually safe, more complex plumbing jobs can lead to flooding, water damage, or even sewage backups. Incorrect plumbing work can also violate building regulations and cause long-term issues. For anything beyond basic repairs, call a qualified plumber.

Installing or Repairing Gas Appliances

Working with gas appliances is extremely risky due to the potential for gas leaks and explosions. In the UK, it’s illegal for anyone who isn’t Gas Safe registered to work on gas appliances. Always hire a certified professional for these jobs to ensure your safety and comply with the law.

Knocking Down Walls

Removing a wall might seem like a great way to open up your space, but it’s not as simple as it looks. Walls may be load-bearing or contain essential wiring, plumbing, or gas lines. Improper removal can lead to structural collapse or damage to vital home systems. Always consult a structural engineer before removing walls.

Installing a New Shower or Bath

While it might seem straightforward, installing a new shower or bath involves both plumbing and potentially electrical work. Improper installation can lead to leaks, water damage, or even electrical hazards in your bathroom. These jobs often require multiple skills best left to professionals.

Repairing or Replacing Windows

Working with large panes of glass is inherently dangerous due to the risk of cuts and falls. Improperly installed windows can also lead to drafts, water leaks, and reduced energy efficiency. For your safety and home’s integrity, leave window repairs and replacements to experienced professionals.

DIY Pest Control

While store-bought pesticides might seem like an easy fix, they can be dangerous if misused. Some pests, like wasps or rats, can also be aggressive when disturbed. Professional pest control experts know how to safely and effectively manage infestations without putting your health at risk.

Repairing Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if they snap or are improperly handled. Attempting to repair or replace these springs without proper tools and knowledge is extremely dangerous. Always call a garage door professional for these repairs.

Extensive Painting Projects

While painting itself isn’t particularly dangerous, the preparation and execution of large painting projects can be. Scraping old paint might release harmful lead dust in older homes. Working on tall ladders or scaffolding also poses a fall risk. For big jobs, especially those requiring work at height, consider hiring professionals.

Installing a Wood-Burning Stove

Wood-burning stoves require precise installation to prevent fire hazards and ensure proper ventilation. Incorrect installation can lead to house fires or carbon monoxide poisoning. In the UK, installation must comply with building regulations, making this a job best left to certified professionals.

DIY Loft Conversions

Loft conversions involve complex structural, electrical, and sometimes plumbing work. They also need to comply with strict building regulations. Attempting this project yourself could result in an unsafe living space, structural damage to your home, or injuries during the construction process. Always hire experienced professionals for loft conversions.

16 American Foods Brits Can’t Stand

Food preferences can vary wildly across cultures, and what’s considered a delicacy in one country might be seen as downright bizarre in another. This cultural divide is particularly evident when comparing American and British cuisines. While the two nations share a common language, their tastes in food can be worlds apart. From overly sweet concoctions to processed cheese products, there are certain American foods that many Brits find hard to stomach.

Read More: 16 American Foods Brits Can’t Stand