3 Home Improvements That Are Illegal to DIY

If you’re an avid do-it-yourselfer, there are likely many DIY home improvements that you’re capable of tackling on your own. Even if you have the basic knowledge to complete a project, however, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you should. In many areas, certain home improvement projects, particularly those that involve working with dangerous elements such as gas and electricity, must be handled by a professional. These laws are in place for your own safety and for the good of your home. Here are a few of the projects that are generally illegal to do on your own.

HVAC Repairs

The gas used to heat up a furnace and the freon and other refrigerants contained in air conditioning units can all be deadly to someone working on them without the right certification and experience. Freon leaks, for example, can cause dizziness, respiratory problems and asphyxia. In addition, if you were to repair your own HVAC unit and a problem arose, the manufacturer could void your warranty due to your lack of proper licensing.

Stove Conversions

It may seem like a simple matter to switch from an electric range over to a gas stove, but this is definitely a project for the professionals. What some people may not realize is that a gas stove requires both gas and electricity, so you will need a competent plumber to put in the gas line, in addition to an electrical handyman to modify the electrical circuit. They will know the codes for your area, and will inspect the final product to ensure that it’s functioning correctly.

Installing Lighting

Did you know that faulty wiring is one of the leading causes of house fires? If you were to tackle this project on your own without the proper permits or the help of a professional, it’s very likely that your insurance company would have grounds to dismiss your insurance claim in the event of a fire. Not only could you potentially lose your home, you could also lose the ability to rebuild and replace your belongings. This alone is reason enough to call an electrician when you want to replace or install light fixtures that will affect the electrical wiring.

Trust Those Tough Jobs to Handyman Connection

“How do I get an estimate from an electrician near me?” It’s easy! Just call Handyman Connection at 1-800-88-HANDY, and we’ll send over one of our experienced electrical technicians to discuss your project with you and give you a free, no-obligation estimate.