Rental property investors with handyman skills often handle property maintenance and repairs themselves to save money. While some tasks are straightforward and safe, others—especially electrical and plumbing work—carry significant risks. These repairs can result in personal injury or worsen the problem. Even experienced do-it-yourself rental property owners should know how to avoid the hazards associated with electrical and plumbing repairs and recognize when calling a professional is necessary.
Many property owners choose the do-it-yourself approach for property maintenance and repairs, but it’s important to know your limits. Understanding the dangers and when to hire a licensed professional can prevent costly mistakes in the long run.
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 like replacing light bulbs, outlets, and breakers can often be completed quickly and safely. You can avoid injuries if you take proper precautions and shut off electricity before starting the job.
Still, any repair or maintenance tasks involving electricity carry inherent risks. You might be wrong even if you think you’ve shut off the power. And if you aren’t entirely sure about your wiring job, you could damage light fixtures, appliances, and more. Even small mistakes can result in you electrocuting yourself or causing an electrical fire.
Either way, instead of saving yourself some money, you’ve now created new, more expensive problems – and possibly endangered your tenants as well. These are all good reasons to consider hiring a licensed electrician to perform even basic electrical repairs and maintenance.
When to Call a Plumber for Urgent Rental Property Repairs
Plumbing repairs can seem less risky, but they still require caution. While minor repairs, such as replacing a toilet stopper or installing a showerhead, are manageable, larger or urgent issues require professional attention.
If a tenant calls you about a broken pipe or malfunctioning garbage disposal, trying to fix it yourself could lead to extensive water damage. As a property owner, ensuring that urgent plumbing repairs are handled professionally is crucial. In most cases, that means calling a professional plumber for high-quality service.
Even when the issue isn’t urgent, hiring a plumber or electrician can often be the best option. While it may cost more than a DIY approach, professionals have the proper tools, insurance, and expertise to complete the job efficiently. 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.
Professionals typically carry the right insurance, have the proper tools and equipment for every job, and can complete the work more quickly and efficiently. It might be best to hire someone to handle all the electrical and plumbing work your rental property needs.
To avoid the hassle of finding a maintenance team, look no further than Real Property Management Reliance for professional services in Beverly and nearby. Contact us online or call 978-998-8114 for more information.
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