Don't do it!

IT'S Bank Holiday weekend - therefore I can guarantee you three things.

1: It's likely to rain.

2: Your local DIY store will be heaving.

3: Come Tuesday morning a lot of people will be looking for a good builder to fix the damage they've inflicted on their property whilst trying to save money.

I call it D.I.Y. (Destroy It Yourself).

Now, I'm the first person to encourage anyone to have a go at simple jobs around the house. For example, redecorating, putting up shelves and unblocking sinks are simple things that you CAN do yourself and save some money in the process.

But what must you NOT tackle alone?

Anything ELECTRICAL would be my top steer-clear of tip.

Changing light bulbs or plugs are fine, but anything else and you're getting into dangerous territory.

Even changing light-fittings are best left to the experts if you don't know your Earth from your Live wires - always use a qualified electrician for anything other than the simplest of jobs.

Likewise, if you don't know how to hold a wrench, steer clear of PLUMBING.

Water damage to a property is expensive and difficult to repair, and can ruin carpets, furniture and your personal possessions should you unwitting cause a major leak.

Major STRUCTURAL works, like knocking down a wall, are also often attempted by amateurs with disastrous results. It's possible to completely undermine the structure of a building by taking out key internal walls, unless you know exactly what you're doing. And invalidate your buildings insurance at the same time.

The good news for those looking for tradesmen is that it has got cheaper over the last year or so to get the professionals in.

With many building sites laying off trades due to the slowdown in the industry, there are now lots of skilled people around looking for work.

Qualified

That means right now it's cheaper, and in many areas quicker, to get a qualified company or individual round than it has been for years.

If someone is particularly good, they will always be busy. Asking friends and personal contacts is a good way to source.

However, if that's not an option, it's worth having a look at those websites which allow you to "advertise" your job, which tradesmen then respond to with their "bid" for the work.

You simply post up the details of what you need doing, then pick the cheapest quotes from local companies. You can also read other users' reviews of workmen who have completed projects for them.

Don't forget to check the company is a member of their respective trade body and get everything, including the quote, in writing before the work starts.

So it's up to you. Either bodge it this Bank Holiday or leave it to the experts.

Got a question for Louisa? Email it to louisa.fletcher@notw.co.uk

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