17 Common DIY Mistakes That Can Lead to Legal Issues
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If you’ve been around the blogosphere for any length of time, you’ve probably seen the shiny YouTube videos or Pinterest boards of incredible DIY transformations. It’s supposed to be so easy, right? Grab a hammer, can of paint, and voilà, your dream home is born. The reality, though, is much less glamorous, and sometimes downright risky. Saving a few bucks and flexing your creative muscles is great, but some DIY blunders can be more than frustrating. This can get you in legal hot water.
Home improvement projects, especially, have a sneaky way of crossing over into legal territory. That weekend job might be breaking building codes, violating your HOA rules, or worse — putting someone’s safety at risk. Let’s look at some of the most common mistakes that DIYers make, and how they can turn your dream project into a courtroom drama.
Skipping Building Permits
With all the fun stuff in DIY, it’s tempting to skip the paperwork. If your project includes structural changes, electrical work, or plumbing, you’re probably going to need a permit. With the cost of fines and demolition, if you ignore this step, it could cost you.
Tamper With Load Bearing Walls
While that open concept living room might look great on HGTV, knocking down a load bearing wall without consulting a professional is a disaster. Apart from the risk of your ceiling collapsing, you are also at risk of being sued if the ceiling damages a shared wall or your neighbor’s property.
Unlicensed Electrical Work
Electrical wiring is risky business to tinker with. It is not only a major safety hazard, but in many states, it also is actually illegal to do any significant electrical work without a licensed contractor. Over 44,000 home fires are reported annually in the U.S. — and electrical malfunctions are a leading cause — according to the National Fire Protection Association.
Ignoring HOA Rules
You might already know that if you live in a neighborhood with a Homeowners Association, they can be sticklers about rules. If you don’t receive HOA approval for a new fence or exterior paint job, for example, you could end up in legal disputes, get fined, or even have your project removed.
Hazardous Materials Improper Disposal
Got an old can of lead paint or asbestos insulation? You can’t throw it away. Due to the strict hazardous waste disposal regulations in many states, many facilities will not accept this type of material. Breaking these can lead to big penalties and environmental violations.
Installing Unapproved Outdoor Structures
If you require approval from local zoning authorities, adding a shed, gazebo, or even a playhouse to your backyard may not be allowed. If this is ignored, a fine or notice to tear it down could be handed out. You could be fined as much as a $20,000 penalty for building an unpermitted small backyard cabin in some states.
Plumbing Projects Gone Wrong
Small mistakes can lead to major water damage—or worse, sewage backups—because plumbing is tricky. There are many municipalities that require licensed plumbers for certain things. Also, if you break this rule, your insurance coverage can be void in the case of a damage.
Fencing Over the Line
It sounds easy to install a fence until you end up crossing your own property line. This boundary disputes remains one of the most common headaches of homeowners and one of the most expensive legal battles.
Asbestos Removal Without Professionals
Removing old insulation or ceiling tiles? Check to see if they have asbestos, and if they do, stop. Not only is a DIY project of asbestos removal dangerous to your health, it is illegal in most states without certified professionals.
Misusing Heavy Equipment
Maybe you feel you can just rent and use a backhoe or a crane for a major yard project. Working with heavy machinery without training isn’t just unsafe; in many locales, it’s illegal. If you unintentionally slip up, you can end up with fines or accidents you’re legally liable for.
Breaking the Rules of Historical Preservation Laws
In the case of a historic district, certain renovations will require special approval. Fines or a forced restoration to the original condition may result from painting over original brickwork or replacing vintage windows.
Failure to Test for Lead Paint
The older the home, the more likely there are layers of lead paint hiding under its surface. Homeowners who disturb lead-based paint must follow strict guidelines under the federal law. Failing to take these steps can make you liable for lawsuits or dangerous to your health.
Violating Noise Ordinances
Power tools at midnight? You might think annoyed neighbors might be the worst you can get, but it could get you fined. For the most part, noise ordinance in many cities are extremely strict and if enough complaints are lodged repeatedly against an equipment, then the city may have no other option but to take legal action.
Improper Deck Construction
A deck seems like a fun DIY project, but if you fail to adhere to local building codes, you could be liable for any injuries and possibly structural failures of the deck. A study by the North American Deck and Railing Association reveals that improper deck construction leads to thousands of injuries each year.
Unauthorized Tree Removal
Cutting down that tree in your yard? Check your local laws first. Tree removal in some cities requires a permit, which means failure to get one could cost you a lot of money—perhaps even replant the tree on your dime.
Overlooked Fire Safety Standards
Although installing a fire pit or outdoor kitchen might appear rather simple, incorrect spacing or material can lead to violating fire codes. The downside of this is that if you have an accident, you could get fined or insurance will make a problem of it.
DIY Roof Repairs
It’s always best to leave roofing to the pros. Improper repairs can allow for leaks and structural damage and can void your insurance or lead to you being fined for violating building codes. The best advice when it comes to roofing is to spend a little bit up front rather than risk a big legal bill.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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