10 Home Maintenance Jobs You Can Do Yourself (And 5 You Really Shouldn’t Risk)

With the cost of living where it is, it makes sense that more homeowners are looking at what they can safely do themselves around the house.

There are plenty of small home maintenance jobs that are perfectly manageable without calling in a tradesperson. In fact, staying on top of basic property maintenance can save you thousands over time.

But there are also jobs that look simple on the surface and can quickly turn into expensive repairs if they go wrong.

So here’s a straightforward guide. What you can confidently tackle yourself, and what is better left to a professional.

10 Home Maintenance Jobs You Can Do Yourself

These are sensible, low risk jobs that help keep your home in good shape.

1. Clearing gutters safely from ground level

Blocked gutters are one of the most common causes of damp and water damage. If you can safely clear leaves and debris using proper equipment from ground level, it is a simple job that prevents much bigger issues later.

If gutters are overflowing heavily or leaking at joints, that is usually when it needs a professional look.

2. Re sealing around baths and sinks

Cracked or mouldy sealant around baths, showers and sinks can allow water to seep into walls and flooring. Removing old silicone and applying fresh sealant is a manageable DIY task and can prevent serious water damage.

Take your time and do it neatly. Poor sealing can cause more harm than good.

3. Bleeding radiators

If your radiators have cold spots at the top, they likely just need bleeding. This is a quick job that improves heating efficiency and can help reduce energy bills.

If the issue keeps coming back, there may be a deeper problem in the system.

4. Checking your loft for visible damp

You do not need to climb onto the roof to check for issues. A simple look inside your loft for damp patches, staining or musty smells can give early warning signs of roof problems.

If you spot anything concerning, get it checked sooner rather than later.

5. Replacing tap washers

A dripping tap is often just a worn washer. Replacing it is inexpensive and can stop wasted water and higher bills.

If the leak is coming from pipework or under the sink, that is when it moves into plumbing territory.

6. Tightening loose handles and hinges

Loose door handles, kitchen cupboard hinges and fixtures are easy wins. Small adjustments can stop further damage and extend the life of fittings.

7. Cleaning extractor fans

Bathroom and kitchen extractor fans get clogged with dust over time. Cleaning them improves airflow and helps prevent condensation and mould.

Poor ventilation is one of the biggest causes of damp in UK homes.

8. Testing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

This should be done regularly and only takes a few minutes. Replace batteries as needed and never ignore warning beeps.

9. Visual roof checks from the ground

After heavy rain or storms, look up at your roof from ground level. Check for slipped tiles or obvious damage. Never climb up yourself.

Catching a missing tile early can prevent serious internal water damage.

10. Keeping an eye out for mould

Small patches of mould around windows or in corners can often be treated early. If mould keeps returning, there may be a ventilation or damp issue that needs professional attention.

Where DIY Can Go Wrong

Home maintenance is about prevention. The trouble starts when a job moves from simple upkeep into structural, electrical or plumbing work.

We often see small DIY attempts turn into larger repairs. A minor leak left untreated becomes ceiling damage. Incorrect sealant leads to rotten flooring. A poorly fitted fixture causes hidden water ingress.

It is never about discouraging people from doing what they can. It is about knowing when something needs the right tools and experience.

5 Jobs You Should Not Risk Doing Yourself

Some areas of home maintenance are simply not worth the risk.

1. Electrical rewiring or new circuits

Electrical work must meet safety regulations. Incorrect wiring can cause fires, electric shock and insurance issues. Anything beyond basic fittings should always be handled by a qualified electrician.

2. Boiler work

Boilers must be worked on by Gas Safe registered engineers. It is not just about fixing the issue, it is about safety.

3. Removing structural walls

Taking out a wall without proper structural advice can compromise your home. Load bearing walls require calculations and correct support.

4. Roof repairs at height

Climbing onto a roof is dangerous and one mistake can lead to injury or serious water damage if repairs are done incorrectly.

5. Major plumbing alterations

Moving pipework, altering drainage or installing full bathroom systems needs proper knowledge. A small mistake can result in hidden leaks that cost thousands later.

Preventative Maintenance Is About Peace of Mind

The majority of expensive home repairs start small.

A loose tile leads to water entering the loft. Damp spreads unnoticed. Timber rots. Ceilings stain. What could have been a straightforward repair becomes a much bigger job.

The same goes for kitchens, bathrooms, heating systems and electrics. Small faults build up over time.

Staying on top of home maintenance is not about constantly spending money. It is about knowing what you can handle yourself and having someone reliable to call when you cannot.

That is where we come in.

At McDonald Trade Network, people do not just call us for one project. They call us when they need a plumber this year, an electrician next year, roof work after a storm, or a full kitchen renovation further down the line.

One number. One trusted team. Whatever your home needs.

If you are unsure whether something is safe to tackle yourself, give us a call on 07359033202. We are always happy to give honest advice.