As a rental property investor with some handyman skills, it’s easy to want to handle many of your property maintenance tasks yourself. While some tasks are safe and simple for a do-it-yourself landlord, others—like electrical and plumbing work—can be more dangerous. Without the proper experience, you could accidentally injure yourself or worsen the problem, costing more time and money in the long run. That’s why it’s essential for rental property owners to understand which maintenance tasks they can safely do themselves and when it’s best to call in a professional.
For most rental property owners, doing their own property maintenance and repairs is a way to save money. You might feel confident in your ability to do the work, and for simple tasks, that’s often true. But when it comes to electrical and plumbing work, even a small mistake could lead to bigger problems. It’s important to know your limits and avoid taking on tasks that could jeopardize your safety or the safety of your tenants.
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.
Mistakes with electrical repairs can also create long-term safety issues in your rental property, which could endanger your tenants. For these reasons, it’s always smart to consider hiring a licensed electrician for electrical repairs and maintenance. It’s better to be safe and let an expert handle the risks involved.
When to Call a Plumber for Urgent Rental Property Repairs
Like electrical repairs, plumbing work can also pose risks if you’re not experienced. Simple repairs like replacing a showerhead or toilet stopper can usually be done safely by most do-it-yourselfers. But if the problem is more severe—such as a broken pipe, a backed-up drain, or a malfunctioning garbage disposal—it’s time to call a professional plumber.
Water damage can quickly become a serious issue if plumbing repairs aren’t handled correctly. A small leak left unchecked could lead to flooding, ruined walls or floors, and expensive damage to your rental property. In urgent situations, hiring a plumber ensures that the repair is done quickly and properly, minimizing the risk of further damage.
While handling maintenance and repairs yourself can save money, it’s important to recognize when to call in professionals. Licensed electricians and plumbers bring valuable experience and the right tools for the job, ensuring that repairs are done safely and efficiently. They also carry insurance, which protects both you and your property from liability in case something goes wrong.
Even though it may cost more upfront, hiring professionals can save you from bigger problems down the road. They’ll ensure that repairs are completed to code, protecting your rental property and tenants from potential hazards. For electrical and plumbing work, investing in professional help is often the smartest and safest choice. 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 Viking for professional services in Ramsey County and nearby. Contact us online or call 612-230-3953 for more information.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
