Blog & Social

By Curtis Breslaw, All Canadian Renovations

www.acrltd.ca

Figure you’ll save yourself some money by doing your next home reno yourself? Or maybe get some help from a couple of ‘handy’ friends?

If all you’re doing is cosmetic changes like painting, changing the flooring, maybe swapping out some light fixtures or adding some shelves, there isn’t too much to be concerned with (except the quality of your work!). But anything that requires a trained and licensed tradesperson should not be attempted.

Many homeowners simply don’t understand the risks they may be taking. Electrical work and plumbing are 2 of the more serious projects where optimistic DIYers can find themselves dangerously over their heads.

Electrical

• Electrocution: Improper handling of electrical components can lead to severe shocks or electrocution.
• Fires: Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or poor connections can cause electrical fires, which can destroy homes and result in deaths. If the fire spreads beyond your own home, consider the potential danger to your neighbours’ property.

Plumbing

• Leaks: Incorrectly installed pipes or fittings can cause leaks, leading to water damage, mold growth, and structural issues. Often the leaks can be small and unnoticeable until significant damage is done.
• Flooding: Major plumbing errors can result in significant flooding, damaging floors, walls, and personal property.
  

Code Violations

• Non-compliance: DIY electrical work might not meet the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) standards, leading to violations and fines if discovered. And DIY plumbing might not adhere to local building codes and regulations, resulting in fines and mandatory corrections if discovered.
• Inspection Issues: Improper work can fail inspections, complicating property sales or future renovations. The improper work may have to be re-done before new renovations can start.

Insurance Issues

• Coverage Denial: Insurance companies may deny claims for damages resulting from unapproved or improperly done plumbing or electrical work. The cost of repairing the damage done will far outweigh the price of hiring professionals like All Canadian Renovations in the first place.

Property Value

• Devaluation: Subpar work can decrease your home’s value and deter potential buyers. If a home inspector notices your amateur efforts, you could lose thousands of dollars on the sale of your home.

Conclusion

While DIY projects can be satisfying and cost-effective, serious renovations like electrical and plumbing work should be left to licensed professionals like the team at All Canadian Renovations. With DIY home renovations, the risk often is not worth the reward. All Canadian Renovations complies with all relevant safety standards and building codes, protecting both your home and your well-being.