If you’re a rental property investor with a knack for handyman skills, you’ve probably handled many of your own property maintenance tasks. While several property maintenance and repairs can be safely performed by a do-it-yourself landlord, electrical and plumbing work is often best left to the experts. Mistakes could result in accidentally injuring yourself or worsening the problem. Even seasoned do-it-yourself rental property owners should know how to avoid many of the hazards related to electrical and plumbing work and understand when it’s time to call in a licensed professional.
For most property owners, taking care of property maintenance and repairs can be a rewarding way to maintain their investment. Knowing you did the work yourself and saved some money feels great. However, when it comes to plumbing and electrical tasks, it’s crucial to know what you can safely do yourself and when to leave it to a pro.
Why Electrical Safety Should Be a Priority for Homeowners
When it comes to electricity, the more you know, the safer you are. Simple maintenance tasks such as changing light bulbs, outlets, and breakers are fairly safe for a do-it-yourselfer, provided you’ve made sure to shut off the power beforehand to avoid injuries.
However, even routine repair or maintenance tasks involving electricity come with inherent dangers. If you think you’ve cut the power but haven’t done it correctly, you could damage light fixtures, cause a power surge, or worse, an electrical fire. Trying to handle these issues alone might seem like a way to save yourself some money, but the risks far outweigh the potential savings. You may also endanger your tenants if a repair goes wrong.
In these situations, it’s better to hire a licensed electrician to ensure the repair is done properly. While you may be inclined to tackle simple electrical issues on your own, even minor errors can lead to expensive problems. Having a professional take care of it from the start helps ensure your rental property remains safe for both you and your tenants.
When to Call a Plumber for Urgent Rental Property Repairs
As with electrical work, some plumbing repairs are simple enough for most do-it-yourselfers to handle. Tasks like replacing a toilet stopper or installing a new shower head are relatively straightforward. These maintenance tasks, while not urgent repairs, are typically low-risk.
However, for more severe issues, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. If a renter calls you in a panic because of a broken pipe, a major clog, or a malfunctioning garbage disposal, attempting a quick fix yourself could cause further damage. The last thing you want is to make matters worse, especially when water damage is involved. As a property owner, urgent plumbing repairs should always be handled by a professional to avoid any risk to your rental home.
If you delay calling a plumber, a small problem can quickly escalate, resulting in costly water damage. Instead, contact a licensed plumber to provide high-quality service and prevent further issues.
Even if you aren’t facing an urgent situation, sometimes calling an electrician or plumber is still the right choice. Although it will cost you more than if you did the work yourself, it’s important to remember that hiring a professional comes with valuable benefits.
For do-it-yourself rental property owners, knowing your limits is critical. Tackling more complicated electrical or plumbing repairs without the proper skills can be dangerous for both you and your tenants. Hiring a licensed professional ensures your repairs are done safely, protecting your property from future issues.
If you’re tired of dealing with these types of repairs on your own, Real Property Management Silverstone can help. Our team provides comprehensive property maintenance, including electrical and plumbing work, for rental property investors in Troy. Contact us today or call 586-992-6419 to learn more about how we can take the hassle out of managing your property.
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