Epic DIY Fails: There Are Some Jobs Best Left to the Pros

Over the years of writing Upon Closer Inspection, some of my favorite columns have been the ones dedicated to home inspection finds that are the result of probably well-meaning but epically bad DIY jobs. I haven’t thrilled you with any fantastic DIY fails recently, so I thought I’d collect some of my past favorites for your reading pleasure.

Don’t DIY Electrical

We’ve all been there — that “Gee, I wish there was an outlet right here” moment. What you need to do is call an electrician. You don’t start cutting holes in walls, rigging plugs and extension cords, and then plug in your toaster. Just… don’t do it.

You Should Not DIY Electricity Because You Watched Schoolhouse Rock (Electricity, Electricity)

Quit Using the Wrong Material for the Job

Points for ingenuity and all that, but when you just use what you have on hand instead of the correct materials to solve a problem, you’re going to have to eventually revisit the issue and use the right stuff. I’m looking at you pots and pans currently in the attic catching water from that leak dated 2006.

Then, of course, there’s this awesome repair:

@greenscenehome

File this under DIYplumbing FTW. #homeinspectionfinds #homeinspection #dallasrealestate #realestatehumor #plumbing

♬ original sound – Green Scene Home Inspections – Green Scene Home Inspections

And this one:

Whether it’s a grill covering on your chimney cap, a baby sock on your faucet, or a cork that magically fits the hole in your ceiling, quick fixes are okay as long as they are quick. Eventually, you need to actually fix the problem to consider yourself a competent DIYer.

DIY Don’ts Are More Entertaining Than DIY Do’s

Safety First

@greenscenehome

When it’s time to give up and just buy a new ladder. #homeinspectionfinds askahomeinspector #homeinspection DIYfail #tape #dangerous #dallasrealestate #badidea

♬ original sound – Green Scene Home Inspections – Green Scene Home Inspections

One of the worst aspects of a bad DIY job is that when a job is not done right, it is probably not done safely either. I think we can all agree that this ladder could use a safety upgrade.

Can You Spot The Worst DIY Fails in These Home Inspection Finds?

---

Oh readers, I could keep going for days! The headline above, “DIY Don’ts Are More Entertaining Than DIY Dos,” is a real truism. Whew, this was fun. But if you are struggling with home repairs and not finding it fun, one way to get a handle on everything is to get a home repair consultation with a home inspector. They can advise you on all the systems in your house that are functioning or not functioning properly, which things you can easily do yourself, and which need a professional.