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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 are a rental property investor with solid handyman skills, you likely take care of many property maintenance tasks on your own. While there are some repairs that can be safely managed by do-it-yourself landlords, certain types of repairs—like electrical and plumbing work—can be far riskier. A lack of expertise could lead to accidents, causing injury or making the problem worse. That’s why it’s important for property owners to understand the risks and know when to call in a professional for electrical and plumbing issues.

 

Many rental property owners take on their own maintenance and repairs in order to save money. Doing the work yourself can also be satisfying, especially for minor fixes. However, electrical and plumbing tasks can have hidden dangers. Even if the issue seems small, a mistake could create much larger problems that cost more to fix later on. Knowing your limitations can prevent hazardous situations and protect both you and your tenants.

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. You can avoid injuries if you take proper precautions and shut off electricity before starting the job.

 

Electrical problems in rental properties can pose long-term hazards to your tenants if not handled correctly. To avoid these dangers, it’s usually best to hire a licensed electrician. A professional will ensure the repair is done right, reducing the risk of accidents or future issues that could endanger your property and tenants.

When to Call a Plumber for Urgent Rental Property Repairs

Like electrical work, plumbing repairs can be risky. While you might feel comfortable replacing a showerhead or fixing a leaky faucet, more serious plumbing problems need professional attention. If you’re dealing with a broken pipe, backed-up drain, or malfunctioning garbage disposal, it’s better to call a plumber.

Plumbing problems can cause significant water damage if not fixed promptly and correctly. Uncontrolled water can ruin floors, walls, and even the structure of your rental property. By calling a professional plumber, you’ll prevent the situation from escalating and avoid the need for costly repairs.

 

Although handling repairs yourself may seem cost-effective, hiring a licensed professional for electrical and plumbing work is often the safer choice. Professionals have the right tools, insurance, and expertise to get the job done quickly and correctly. 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 Pacific for professional services in Emeryville and nearby. Contact us online or call 510-900-4544 for more information.

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