A Do-It-Yourself (DIY) project is a great way to add a personal touch to your home. These projects can be fun and less expensive than hiring a professional. Still, the slightest errors can cost you a lot of money in repairs or replacement. They might even result in an increased home insurance premium.

Here's a look at the most common DIY mistakes that can affect your homeowners insurance.

1. Lack of Proper Permits

   One of the common mistakes that homeowners make is failing to get a permit for a DIY project. Whether you are carrying out the project yourself or hiring a licensed contractor, you are required to obtain a permit from the local government. Without the proper permits, your insurance claim will be invalid in the event of damage or an accident. Your insurance company will consider it to be an act of negligence, which won't be covered.

2. Working in a Dangerous Environment

   While it's tempting to improve your living environment yourself, there are incidences when it is more advisable to seek the help of a licensed professional. This is especially true if you're working in a dangerous environment, such as working on a roof or in an older, less stable structure. If you are experienced or believe you are capable enough to perform a DIY task in your home, ensure you have the necessary insurance coverage in case of an accident, such as slipping or falling.

3. Inaccurate Measurements

   To get accurate measurements, you should make it a practice to measure anything at least twice. You could make a mistake the first time, but measuring at least twice will increase your accuracy. This is especially important when you want to install fixtures such as hangers, cabinets, or pipes.

   Keep in mind that any home insurance claim you make for damage caused by your negligence will be invalid, so any adjustments you make must be made as accurately as possible.

4. Using the Wrong Tools and Equipment

   Finding the correct tools and matching materials to use in your home may be difficult. It may also be more expensive to get authentic materials. You may be tempted to use the wrong tools or sub-standard materials. While it is possible to use substitutes and still produce something aesthetically pleasing, there is a high chance that you could make a mistake or end up damaging something in the process.

   If your home insurance provider finds out that you have swapped the original materials or that you sustained damage to your home by using poor tools, your home insurance premium will increase.

Tips to Prevent DIY Disasters

The first thing to do before you embark on any DIY home project is to inform your home insurance provider. This way, your insurers are aware of all you are planning to do with your home. You may be required to update or change your insurance policy to accommodate potential accidents or damages.

Here are a few things you could also do to prevent a DIY disaster:

• Hire or consult a professional before you take on any DIY projects.
• Do extensive research on the task and identify all possible mistakes or risks involved.
• Ensure that your work environment is clean and safe. Get the right equipment and protective gear to guarantee your safety.
• Practice the skill you need for the task.
• If you'll be getting help from friends or family members, ensure your home insurance policy covers them as well.

If you want help with your home insurance, call the professionals at Jack Stone Insurance Agency. Our team can help you accurately secure the right homeowners insurance in Hudson and beyond. Contact us today to get started!

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