UK homeowners could be unwittingly playing a dangerous game of chance with their homes and wallets, as experts sound the alarm on four routine DIY tasks that might invalidate their insurance – from meddling with boiler repairs to DIY solar panel fitting.
While some savvy residents take on jobs like electrical work or plumbing fully aware of the inherent dangers, industry specialists are warning that even seemingly minor home improvements could land Brits in serious financial hot water.
Highlighting these pitfalls, Katharine Allison, Energy Expert at Independent Advisor, pointed out four typical home endeavours that might spell disaster for unsuspecting DIYers. Her advice?
Avoid these potentially expensive blunders by “knowing when to call in an expert”.
Boilers
Boilers, for instance, can present a labyrinth of issues, tempting the eager homeowner to tackle the problem head-on. Yet, such interventions could “easily void your home insurance”, according to Katharine.
Boilers mended without professional care could lead to catastrophic outcomes, including gas leaks, fires, and carbon monoxide outbreaks.
Insurers typically stipulate that only Gas Safe registered technicians should undertake boiler repairs. If your DIY attempt backfires, you’re likely to find yourself without insurance support, facing a hefty bill alone.
Not to mention, as Katharine underscores, the “severe” health hazards such mistakes pose to all living in the household.
Solar panels
Solar panels are another risky area where unqualified handiwork might not just impact cover but also safety.
As energy bills soar, many homeowners are considering solar panels as an economical alternative. However, DIY installations could invalidate your home insurance due to the intricate electrical work involved, which must adhere to the UK’s Building Regulations Part P.
Improper installation can lead to electrical faults, roof damage, and even fires, with insurers potentially refusing to cover repair costs, leaving you liable for expensive fixes. Katharine cautioned: “While it might seem like you’re saving a few quid by installing it yourself, the costs (and safety risks) associated with an incorrect installation might spiral out of control before you know it.”
Garden sheds
On the surface, constructing a garden office or shed may appear to be the most straightforward and low-risk endeavour on this list, yet it can significantly impact your home insurance if the build doesn’t meet code and comply with local building regulations. The expert warned: “With more people working from home, it’s understandable that many are looking to build a garden office or shed as a cost-effective solution.
“The idea of constructing it yourself to save money is tempting, but there are numerous pitfalls to consider. If the structure isn’t up to standard – whether it’s due to poor construction, inadequate insulation, or faulty electrics – you might find that your insurance won’t cover any issues that arise, leaving you out of pocket. It’s crucial to ensure that any garden building is constructed professionally and complies with all necessary regulations.”
Attic conversions
Attic conversions often appear as a more straightforward DIY task, seemingly offering a customisable space tailored to the homeowner’s preferences; however, without proper planning and professional input, it could turn into an expensive mistake. Structural modifications, electrical installations, and insulation improvements are typically involved in these projects, all mandated to meet strict building and fire safety codes.
Neglecting correct procedures during an attic transformation can endanger the homes structural stability, nullify existing insurance policies and overall safety. Katharine emphasised: “There are countless ways a DIY conversion could go wrong. This is one project where calling in the experts is definitely worth it.”
And for those pondering over the possible repercussions of their planned home improvements, Katharine advised: “It’s always best to err on the side of caution.”
