DIY or hire, job by job
Sixteen common home repairs, sorted by how DIY-friendly they usually are, with the reason. Your skills, your home and local rules can move a job up or down this list.
| Job | Verdict | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Patch small drywall holes | Usually DIY | Cheap materials, forgiving if you redo it. |
| Re-caulk a tub or shower | Usually DIY | A few dollars of caulk prevents water damage. |
| Replace a toilet flapper | Usually DIY | An inexpensive part and about 15 minutes. |
| Unclog a sink or toilet | Usually DIY | Plunger or hand auger first; avoid harsh chemical openers. |
| Paint a room | Usually DIY | Mostly prep and patience. Test for lead first in pre-1978 homes. |
| Replace HVAC filters | Usually DIY | Takes minutes and keeps the system efficient. |
| Replace a faucet | Maybe: depends on you | DIY-friendly with the water off, but corroded fittings can fight back. |
| Replace a light fixture | Maybe: depends on you | Only with the breaker off and tested dead. Hire if wiring looks old or damaged. |
| Install flooring | Maybe: depends on you | Click-together flooring is doable; tile takes skill and tools. |
| Fix a sagging gate or fence | Maybe: depends on you | Usually DIY; new fences may need a permit. |
| Replace a water heater | Hire a licensed pro | Gas and venting, and often a permit. A licensed plumber is safest. |
| New circuits or panel work | Hire a licensed pro | Shock and fire risk, and almost always a permit. |
| Anything involving gas lines | Hire a licensed pro | Leaks are dangerous. Licensed pros only. |
| Roof repairs | Hire a licensed pro | Falls from roofs are a leading cause of serious DIY injury. |
| Removing a wall | Hire a licensed pro | It may be load-bearing. Needs an expert and a permit. |
| Disturbing suspected asbestos | Hire a licensed pro | Have it tested and handled by professionals. |
Stop-and-call signs
Smell gas? Leave and call your gas utility or 911 from outside. Sparking, burning smells, spreading water you can't shut off, or growing cracks mean stop and call a pro. More in When to stop and call a pro right away.