Every homeowner understands – the projects around the house that need attention seem to be in never-ending supply. While there are some jobs that can be done by a self-proclaimed DIY’er, there are many that are a bit too complex for a weekend warrior. However, when working on your home, you may actually be getting yourself into hot water – is it possible that your DIY project is illegal?
The fact is that there are many home projects that are required to be performed by a licensed professional, to ensure compliance with codes and safety standards. Plumbing, electric and HVAC projects are the most common of these types of projects. Here is a quick list of projects you may wish to outsource to a professional.
Change Your Stovetop: You may be dreaming of changing your electric stovetop to a gas model, but you should not attempt the installation of the new appliance by yourself. In fact, this task requires two professional contractors – a plumber to install the gas line and an electrician to modify the electrical wires. Both aspects are required to meet codes, especially as the fire and combustion risk is high.
Repairing your A/C: No one wants to be caught in a Sarasota summer with a broken HVAC system. While it may seem tempting (and less expensive) to take care of the problem ourselves, freon leaks are dangerous – they can result in dizziness or respiratory issues. Besides the safety issue, you may also inadvertently void your warranty, which could be far more costly a few years down the road.
Replace Your Hot Water Tank: This is not a DIY project, no matter how confident you are in your abilities. Installing or replacing a water heater means dealing with 240 volts of electricity or messing with gas lines and carbon monoxide. Because of the permits, code adherences, safety regulations, and risks, a licensed plumber is required to take on this job.
Change your Old Insulation: If you installed your insulation years ago, you may be able to change it out now. But many older Sarasota homes have attic insulation which contains asbestos. This substance is toxic and is linked to many serious and even fatal respiratory illnesses. There are many laws in place to regulate how asbestos is handled, as it poses a danger to you, your family, and even potentially your neighbors. Asbestos abatement experts should be called in order to keep everyone healthy and to have your home completely remediated.
Play with Light Fixtures: One of the best ways to change the ambiance of the room is to change the lighting. If you are planning to replace or add light fixtures requiring electrical wiring work, it is prudent to call in an electrician to be on the safe side. Proper permits must be obtained – and the insurance company may even deny your claim if there is a house fire. The possibility is not as remote as you would think – faulty wiring is one of the leading causes of house fires in the United States.
Remove Pesky Wildlife: Rodents and other pests such as raccoons can wreak havoc on your electrical wires, spread disease, and gnaw through structural beams. It is important to know that many of these wildlife species are often carry rabies, and it may be illegal to harm, trap or relocate them without the assistance of a professional. Wildlife-control companies will remove the animals, close up the openings, and eliminate waste.
No DIY project is worth harming yourself or putting your family in danger. The master electricians at Promise Electric are dedicated to helping you with your residential electrical needs, and to ensuring your projects are done safely and legally. Call today to learn more.
