15 guides
Home repair money guides
Plain-English guides to spending less on home repairs without taking risks you shouldn't. General education, not professional advice. We aren't a contractor, and nobody pays us to mention them.
DIY or hire
Deciding, permits, safety limits and when to call right away.
- DIY or hire? Five questions to decide
Safety first, then skills, tools, time and the real savings.
- Permits and codes: when you need one
Skipping a required permit can cost more later.
- When to stop and call a pro right away
Some problems aren't DIY at any price.
- Know your limits: DIY safety basics
Ladders, protective gear, lead paint and asbestos.
Spend less on repairs
Repair or replace, small preventive jobs, warranties and insurance claims.
- Repair or replace? Appliances and systems
A simple rule of thumb, and when to break it.
- Small repairs that prevent big bills
Ten-minute jobs that stop expensive damage.
- Warranties and home warranty plans
Use the coverage you have, and read before you buy more.
- Should you claim on home insurance?
Compare the damage with your deductible and think about the future.
Hiring well
Quotes, licenses, contracts, payments and avoiding scams.
- Get three quotes you can compare
Same job, same details, in writing.
- Check a contractor before you hire
License, insurance, reviews and references.
- Contracts, deposits and paying safely
Get it in writing and never pay everything up front.
- Spot and avoid home repair scams
Door knockers, storm chasers and too-good deals.
Tools and materials
A starter kit, borrowing and renting, and buying materials for less.
- A starter tool kit on a budget
The dozen tools that handle most small repairs.
- Borrow or rent tools instead of buying
Tool libraries, rental counters and neighbors.
- Buy materials for less
Measure well, buy smart and return the extras.