DIY expert warns of mistake many make with damp that could end up costing double

07 March 2023 , 13:00

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There are certain jobs that are best left to the professionals (stock image) (Image: Getty Images)

Many people love a bit of DIY – it usually ends up being cheaper than hiring a professional, and is also a chance of being a bit creative at home.

However, DIY experts have warned that there are some jobs that are best left to the professionals, and if you attempt to do them yourself you're actually risking having to fork out double if it goes wrong.

According to the UK's largest online conveyancer, My Home Move Conveyancing, there are some jobs that you should call in experts, instead of doing it yourself.

DIY expert Jo Behari said: "There are some things that are better left to the professionals. Damp patches, replastering, electrics, gas and plumbing, for example, can all go horribly wrong if not handled by an expert.

Damp patches are best left to the experts (stock image) (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

"It's worth spending some money getting these elements up to scratch, as it'll maximise the value of your home and avoid putting buyers off."

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If you don't get a good plasterer in, you're risking having to fork out double to tackle the job yourself, warns Jo.

She told The Mirror: "A good plasterer takes many years to hone their craft and, as such, their day rate reflects their level of skill. Depending on your location, you're looking at £200 a day for a plasterer. If you do decide to tackle this job yourself, you'll more than likely end up paying double, as when you call in an expert they'll have to undo your work before making good."

When it comes to damp patches, it's not as easy as fixing the external appearance – you need to get to the root of the cause.

Jo explained: "This is always a sign of water coming in from somewhere – and water takes the path of least resistance, so it's likely to have caused damage behind the wall or under the floorboards before you start to notice anything is wrong.

"Never ignore signs of damp, as there could be a huge problem lying underneath, or equally it may not be, but the sooner you find out the better. Dealing with it yourself could mean repointing external brickwork or fixing leaking pipes and if this is done badly, you're looking at thousands of pounds worth of damage to repair."

Electrics, gas and plumbing are also jobs that should be left to a qualified professional, according to the expert who added: "You are looking at a day rate upwards of £200 for these trades but bear in mind you are paying for their expertise and, in not doing so, you could actually cause harm to others. Both gas and electrical work can even be fatal if not carried out properly, so don’t scrimp on this expense - think of it as an investment not an expenditure.”

Ariane Sohrabi-Shiraz