MySDMoms Staff (StatePoint) One in five DIY-ers tackling home renovations ends up in the hospital each year due to accidents, according to the Home Safety Council. Don’t become a statistic.
Here are the seven most dangerous DIY home renovations you should leave to the experts.
Tree Trimming & Removal
Trees don’t always fall in a predictable manner, creating a hazard for yourself and your property. It’s best to consult a certified arborist, no matter how handy you are with power tools.
“If a tree falls during a storm, a DIY mishap, or a careless neighbor’s landscaping project, take photos and contact your claims adjuster as soon as possible,” says Erie Insurance Vice President and Product Manager, Joe Vahey. “Your adjuster can help evaluate the damage and explain how your homeowners insurance can help.”
Asbestos Removal
Many homes built before 1980 contain asbestos. Before renovating, it’s a smart idea to have your home inspected for asbestos-containing materials by accredited professionals. Leave clean-up to experts, and limit your exposure to the area. Inhaling airborne fibers may cause harmful respiratory problems.
Roof Repair
When faced with severe storm damage, homeowners often look for a quick fix for roof damage. Rather than running the risk of falling or injuring yourself, have your homeowners insurance claims adjuster verify damage and schedule repair work with an experienced company. In the long run, this will save you time, money and help you avoid injuries.
Electrical Repairs
While it may be easy to change a light switch or install a ceiling fan (make sure your power is turned off before you start), replacing circuits and other larger projects should be done by professionals. This will prevent shocks, injuries and potential fires, while ensuring your home is up to building codes if you eventually plan to sell.
Gas Appliance Repairs
Properly cutting off or hooking up gas lines can be tricky, so leave gas appliance repairs to the professionals to protect against potential gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Knocking Down Walls
If you’re looking for an open floor plan, think before tearing down walls yourself. Do you know which walls are load-bearing and where plumbing or electrical lines are located? Professionals will know how to best navigate the project from start to finish so you stay safe, and your home stays intact.
Pest Control
Not all pest-control products should be handled by the average consumer. Keep your family safe by hiring a pest control company to handle toxic substances properly.
More renovations safety tips and information on homeowners insurance can be found at www.ErieInsurance.com.
Before taking on your next big project, think about where you can bring in the pros to save time and money in the long run, and keep your family safe and sound. If accidents do occur during the DIY renovation process, be sure to loop in your insurance claims agent to help assess any damage.
