DIY can save cash, but some jobs are too risky for you to go it alone. It’s important to know what you can tackle yourself, and to know when to call the pros.
There are several reasons you may be looking to do a major home improvement project:
To update your current home. Maybe you’re getting ready to sell, or just want a change.
You find a resale home that needs some love.
You’re buying a new build and hope to save some money by opting out of builder upgrades – and tackling them yourself.
However, if you’re looking to renovate one of the items on this list, our advice is: Don’t.
“It might be cheaper to DIY something upfront, but mistakes can be costly,” Amanda Hendrix, creator of Love and Renovations, said. “If something isn’t done correctly (especially with major renovations like structural work), you could end up paying twice - once to do it yourself and again to have someone fix it.”
Here are seven renovations that are best left to the pros (and signs you should look into a new-build instead):
1. Electrical work
Why not? One wrong wire can mean a shock or a fire.
Call a pro for:
• Panel upgrades
• New circuits
• Extensive rewiring
“Most people can change out a light fixture or even swap out an outlet pretty easily, but if you’re doing anything more extensive than that, it’s best to call in a pro,” Hendrix said.
The new-home solution: With new homes, you can rest assured that all electrical elements are up-to-code and wires and outlets are brand new, meaning no previous wear and tear.
2. Major plumbing
Why not? Hidden leaks can cause water damage and mold, which can add up quickly.
Call a pro for:
• Pipe rerouting
• Sewer line work
• Water heater installs
“Most semi-handy people can do the basics like swapping out a faucet or even changing a toilet, but the more complicated plumbing work should always be saved for a professional,” Hendrix said.
The new-home solution: Pipes in resale homes might be as old as the home itself, and not up to today’s standards. A new construction home comes with the assurance of modern pipes built to current codes – saving you money in the longterm.
3. Roof repairs
Why not? Roofing is easy to get wrong, and climbing on your roof comes with obvious risks.
Call a pro for:
• Extensive shingle replacement
• Major leaks
• Full roof replacement
“You might be tempted to fix that minor hail damage yourself, but a bad patch job can lead to a whole world of issues down the line,” Hendrix said. “It’s best to just call in someone who can make sure it’s handled the right way the first time.”
The new-home solution: If you’re moving into a new or custom home, you can rest assured that your roof is solid from the start – brand-new materials, installed by a professional.
4. Structural changes
Why not? Structural work is delicate. Knocking down the wrong wall or uprooting the wrong floor can cause extensive damage.
Call a pro for:
• Load-bearing walls
• Foundation work
• Room additions
“If you don’t have the knowledge about what walls might be load-bearing, you can cause yourself some major issues,” Hendrix said.
The new-home solution: When you choose a new or custom build, you can avoid this issue as early as the drafting stage. Choose the perfect floorplan from a selection of thoughtfully-chosen plans, or work with your builder for the custom plan that’s best for your family.
5. HVAC installs
Why not? HVAC systems are complex machines that require a thorough understanding of how they work to safely repair or replace them.
Call a pro for:
• Furnace/AC installs
• Ductwork
• Smart zoning systems
The new-home solution: New homes come with new systems, including HVAC, meaning repairs should be a distant future problem. And if that time does come, you may be able to lean on your builder warranty. Plus, new home HVACs are up to the latest safety and eco-friendly standards.
6. Gas line work
Why not? A gas leak can cause carbon monoxide poisoning - or worse.
Call a pro for:
• Gas stove installs
• Line repairs
• Leak fixes
The new-home solution: New homes undergo several inspections throughout the build process, so you don’t have to worry about faulty gas lines. If there are issues, you can utilize your builder warranty to handle them.
7. Window replacement
Why not? Windows and window frames aren’t universal, and getting the wrong kind can mean extensive work and expensive repairs. And adding a new window can be a costly, time-consuming process.
Call a pro for:
• Custom or full-frame installs
• Energy-efficient upgrades
The new-home solution: If you’re getting your home custom-built, you can decide which type of windows you want before construction starts, and exactly where you want them, saving time and money.
The Bottom Line: If it’s dangerous, regulated, or structural, your best bet is to call a pro. A little money saved now could mean a huge financial headache down the line.
And if you’re looking at a home with a plethora of issues, a new-build home may be your best solution. While a new-home price tag might not look as appealing as a resale, you may find yourself spending all those savings and then some trying to fix major issues.
To learn more about new homes, find us on Facebook, X, and Instagram, and visit newhomesource.com/learn for more tips and tricks about new homes.
James Klingele
James Klingele holds a Bachelor of Science in Digital Media Innovation from Texas State University. He is a digital media specialist and content creator with a passion for storytelling in both print and digital formats. His work has included covering high-profile events like SXSW, where he contributed to content creation for global audiences. He has been a content specialist for NewHomeSource since 2024.