12 Home Tasks That Are Safer in Professional Hands

This post may contain affiliate links.

Not every chore around the house requires you to grab your toolbox and get to it. Who knows, what might begin as a weekend project can turn into a disaster. Picture this: you’re on YouTube, you’re watching a “simple” tutorial, and now the water’s flooding the bathroom or the sparks are flying and they shouldn’t be. Sounds familiar? There are some tasks, tempting as it may be, that are better left to people who actually know how to do them.

Hiring a pro can sting a little, since you’re giving up on your DIY dreams, but really it’s often the smarter (and less stressful) option. If I know someone can do a job better than me, why would I struggle with the risky stuff? The professionals have the skills, tools, and experience to do the job while I can enjoy the results without all the frustration. With that, let’s look at a few home tasks that just make more sense, and are safer overall, to outsource.

Roof Repairs

Parts of Your House That Will Always Fail a Home Inspection — Photo Credit: Chad Withrow/Flickr

Putting yourself on a roof is not only a measure of your bravery, it’s a dangerous thing to do. With one slip, you risk injuries or worse, death. With the gear and know how, roofing professionals can safely handle repairs or replacements so your home is protected from the elements.

Tree Trimming and Removal

That overgrown oak is blocking your view, yes, but you might just chop it down yourself only to be seriously injured. Even the seasoned pros approach falling branches—or the entire tree—with caution. Tree work is a job best left to arborists who are trained in how to do it safely.

Pest Control

Photo Of Person Spraying Disinfectant — Photo Credit: Matilda Wormwood/Pexels

It can be a nightmare dealing with an infestation, as over the counter sprays don’t always do the trick. Professionals have access to stronger treatments and know how to get to the root problem of it. They can also advise you on how to keep pests from returning, something which is not usually attainable with DIY pest control, since it ‘often leads to improper usage of products, which can be dangerous to you and your family.

Maintaining Your Heating and Cooling System

Your HVAC system is an unsung hero in your home, making sure you stay cool in summer and warm in winter. Tinkering with it yourself can void warranties or worse, completely break the thing. HVAC technicians will know how to diagnose and fix problems fast, and safely, so your system runs smoothly year round.

Structural Changes

You’re excited to knock down a couple of walls to create your dream open concept space, but what if that wall you want to knock down is load bearing? It could compromise the structural integrity of your home if you remove it. Only professional contractors have the expertise to tell which walls can go and which need to stay.

Plumbing Repairs

Of course, fixing a leaky faucet is doable by anyone, but anything to do with your home’s plumbing system is best left to the professionals. A simple misstep or things going south can be disastrous and expensive because water causes massive damage. A good plumber can spot problems you likely won’t see and save you a tidal wave of trouble.

Electrical Work

"Top 15 NEC Code Mistakes DIYers Often Make—and How to Avoid Them" — Image Credit: Aizat Ramlan/Pexels

You don’t want to mess with electricity if you don’t know exactly what you’re doing. Blown circuits, or worse, a fire, are just one wrong move away. Professional electricians do more than fix the problem; they make sure it is done safely and in code. The National Fire Protection Association says faulty electrical systems are one of the top causes of house fires in the U.S. That’s one worth taking seriously.

Gas Line Repairs

If you smell gas, that’s a sign that you need to leave it to the professionals. Gas lines are not only risky, they’re dangerous. Licensed technicians know how to safely repair leaks and make sure your home isn’t at risk for an explosion.

Appliance Repairs

"20 Sneaky Habits That Are Killing Your Dishwasher Early" — Image Credit:The Home depot/Pixabay

While your trusty washing machine may act up every once in a while, you really should avoid trying to fix it yourself as you can cause more harm than good. A number of appliances are complex systems that need specialized tools and training in order to be repaired. Without the guesswork, a professional can diagnose the issue and get your appliance running like new.

Window Installations

Poorly installed windows can cause drafts, water damage and extremely high energy bills. But professional installers make sure they fit snugly and seal properly for an efficient, weatherproof home.

Swimming Pool Maintenance

While balancing pool chemicals might seem simple enough, it’s a delicate science. Too much or too little of certain chemicals can hurt swimmers and damage your pool. All you have to do is enjoy your swim, and leave the hard work to pool professionals, who are trained to keep your water clean and safe.

Flooring Installation

DIY Home Renovation Ideas Under $5000 — Image Credit: Kelly/Pexels

Maybe laying down hardwood or tile flooring looks easy on HGTV, but in the real world it’s a painstaking process. You can ruin the look and longevity of your floor with uneven surfaces, incorrect cuts, or improper adhesives. With experience, professionals know how to give a flawless finish which would last for many years.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.