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DIY or Call the Pros? What You Can (And Can’t) Safely Do Around the House

DIY

When something breaks or needs updating at home, it’s tempting to get stuck in with the toolbox. After all, how hard can it be to swap a socket, unblock a pipe, or relight a boiler?

But while a bit of DIY can save money in the short term, it’s important to know where the legal and safety lines are. In some cases, doing things yourself could invalidate your insurance or put your family at serious risk.


Here’s a myth-busting guide to what homeowners in the UK can legally tackle themselves… and when it’s time to call in the pros.


Why DIY Isn’t Always the Smart Move

Many homeowners take pride in being hands-on, but when it comes to plumbing, electrics, and gas work, the consequences of getting it wrong can be costly or even dangerous.


  • DIY work on gas appliances without being Gas Safe registered is illegal.

  • Incorrect wiring could result in electrical fires, shocks, or voided insurance.

  • Poor plumbing repairs might lead to leaks, mould, or water damage that’s not covered.


In short, doing a job yourself isn’t always the money-saver it seems. Sometimes, investing in qualified help protects your home, your wallet, and your safety.


Tools

What You Can Safely Do Yourself


Electrical Work: Small Tasks Only


Allowed:

  • Changing lightbulbs

  • Replacing sockets or switches like-for-like (in dry areas)

  • Installing light fittings (non-bathroom, low voltage)

  • Fitting extractor fans (with pre-existing wiring)


You can do minor tasks, but anything that requires working near the consumer unit (fuse box), involves bathroom zones, or new circuits, should be left to a qualified electrician. For anything else, our electrical services can ensure the job is safe and compliant.


Plumbing: Basic Fixes

Allowed:

  • Changing taps or washers

  • Unblocking drains or toilets

  • Replacing showerheads

  • Fitting isolation valves on existing pipes


But be cautious. Plumbing jobs can look simple, but go wrong fast. A small leak can escalate into major water damage, especially if seals or pipe joints aren’t tightened properly. For more serious work like pipe rerouting or cylinder issues, you’re better off booking a professional. Our plumbing team handles everything from repairs to full bathroom installs.


Gas & Heating: Professional Only

Allowed:

  • Bleeding radiators

  • Adjusting thermostat settings

  • Resetting the boiler pressure


Not allowed (unless Gas Safe registered):

  • Servicing or repairing boilers

  • Installing or removing gas cookers/fires

  • Altering pipework

  • Opening gas appliances


If your boiler's not performing properly or making strange noises, it's time to call in a qualified heating engineer. At Jubo, our Gas Safe team offers everything from boiler installations to annual servicing and urgent repairs.


Common DIY Jobs That Cause Trouble

Even if they seem simple, these jobs often end in costly callouts (and regrets):


  • Bathroom electrics - Shaving sockets, extractor fans, and lighting in zones 1 and 2 are subject to strict safety regs.

  • Boiler resets and gas valves - Misdiagnosing faults can create carbon monoxide risks.

  • Replacing a consumer unit - Only certified electricians can legally do this under Part P of the Building Regulations.


Cylinder and combi conversions - Complex pipework, electrical work, and pressure balancing are needed. See our blog on cylinder vs combi boilers for what’s involved.


Changing pipe

When You Must Use a Registered Professional


By UK law, the following work must be carried out by certified individuals:


  • Gas: Only engineers on the Gas Safe Register

  • Electrics: For notifiable work (e.g. new circuits, consumer unit upgrades, bathroom electrics), you need a Part P certified electrician.

  • Building works: Structural changes, including moving radiators or boilers, may need Building Control sign-off.

  • Solar/EV work: For system integration, connection to the grid, and compliance, always use certified installers.


Why Calling the Pros Saves You More in the Long Run


Think of professional home services as an investment, not a cost. Here’s why:


  • Peace of mind - All work is guaranteed and signed off for safety.

  • Insurance protection - DIY gone wrong often voids claims.

  • Better efficiency - Especially for boiler upgrades, rewires, or heat pump installs, professional jobs reduce future bills.


Added value - Work certified to British standards increases resale value and avoids red flags during surveys.

Cooker

Book Safe, Book Local


At Jubo, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across the UK stay safe, compliant, and stress-free with:


  • Gas boiler replacements

  • New boiler installations

  • Electrical rewires and fuse board upgrades

  • Full bathroom and plumbing refurbishments

  • EV charger and solar-ready systems


If in doubt, don’t risk it. Speak to the team, and we’ll let you know what’s worth tackling… and what’s better left to the pros.



 
 
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