Whenever something in your apartment breaks or just stops working, it is normal to feel that panic moment. Be it a leaky faucet, a broken AC, or that mystery stain on the ceiling, one question always seems to pop up: should you try handling it yourself, or is it time to call in a professional? It’s never a decision to be taken lightly, but knowing what to consider can help you make the right call. Let’s review some key points before picking up your toolbox or the phone.
Understanding the Scope of the Problem
Not all apartment repairs are equal. The minor issues-loose screw, light bulb changing-is in the domain of easy, but other repairs fall into different leagues altogether: electrical problems, water damage, or kitchen renovation require a little more know-how.
First, ask yourself, do you really know what needs to be done? If it has to do with any systems in the building, such as wiring, pipes, or HVAC, then it’s usually best left to someone who’s trained to work on those things.
Or, you might also find that a DIY fix for a big problem makes it even worse: you could have caused greater damage inadvertently, so that the repairs become even more costly, or you may even pose some safety hazard, such as electrical repairs. A professional will do the job correctly and safely, with less long-term stress.
What Does Your Lease Say?
If you rent an apartment, your lease agreement might point out what you are supposed to take care of and what the landlord is responsible for. Some leases clearly state that the landlord is responsible for structural repairs, appliances, and plumbing. Others leave you responsible for minor repairs or wear-and-tear issues.
Start by taking the time to go over your lease. You wouldn’t want to be trying to fix something that is supposed to be taken care of by your landlord, and you also wouldn’t want to spend time or money doing so. In addition, landlords are often responsible for repairs that affect the habitability of your apartment, such as heating or water issues. It’s their legal responsibility to ensure your apartment meets basic living standards.
Time Versus Expertise
Let’s be realistic. Even if you’re good at DIY, not everyone has the time to address apartment repairs. Maybe you’ve got a full work schedule or are not in the mood to spend your weekend figuring out why the washing machine won’t drain. A professional can handle the repair more efficiently, freeing you up to focus on other things.
Beyond that, consider what tools and materials you may want or need. The professional already has the equipment and experience to perform efficiently, accurately, and fast. When trying to save with a DIY approach, consider the cost of supplies and the possible risk of redoing the repair if it does not work out. Sometimes, an investment in a professional is worth the value of having it done correctly on the first try.
Safety First
There’s a reason professionals go through training and certifications. Some repairs come with some risks that should not be taken lightly. Electrical repairs, gas line issues, and even mold removal require expertise, but more importantly, proper safety precautions.
Without proper knowledge, such repairs result in serious accidents or health hazards. Simple repairs like a clogged drain could become much larger if you aren’t careful not to damage the pipes. When in doubt, it’s always best to call in the professionals and have them take care of it safely.
Liability and Insurance Considerations
One thing that most renters don’t know or think about is how personal liability coverage for renters works regarding repairs. If you try to fix something and inadvertently cause more damage to your apartment, or even your neighbor’s unit, you could be held financially responsible for such damages.
Personal liability coverage may kick in and help pay for such damages. Here’s the thing, though, the damage needs to be reported accurately and in a timely fashion.
A pro helps you avoid making the situation worse, and also helps minimize any liability headaches. That is something to consider when deciding whether to DIY or call in the pros.
When Do-it-yourself Makes Sense
That said, there’s definitely times where handling the repair yourself is absolutely fine. You can most likely handle small tasks like filling small holes in the wall, lubricating squeaks out of a cabinet hinge, or replacing a showerhead with just a YouTube search and a quick trip to the hardware store.
Do it yourself if you are confident in your capabilities and the repair is simple. But you have to be honest with yourself regarding what you can handle. Overestimating your skills could cost you more frustration and dollars in the long run.
The Bottom Line
Whether or not you should hire a professional to make repairs in your apartment depends on several factors: the severity of the problem, your abilities, the terms of your lease, and how comfortable you are with assuming some risk. For minor, simple repairs, doing it yourself might be the best option. For anything complicated, potentially dangerous, or that could affect your liability, hiring a professional is often the better option.
In the end, it is your apartment-it’s your home-and is well worth spending some money taking care of it. Whether you do it yourself rolling up your sleeves, or decide to let professionals handle the work, the most important thing is for the job to be done safely and effectively so that you can return to using your space for its intended purpose.