When to Call a Professional vs. DIY: A Handyman’s Honest Guide
As a homeowner, it’s tempting to handle repairs yourself. YouTube makes everything look simple, and sometimes it is. Other times, a small mistake can lead to damaged appliances, electrical issues, or expensive repairs down the road.
At Harrison Home Solutions, we believe homeowners deserve honest guidance — not scare tactics. Here’s a straightforward breakdown of when DIY makes sense and when calling a professional is the safer, smarter option.
✅ Projects That Are Often Safe to DIY
If you’re comfortable with basic tools and take your time, these projects are typically reasonable for homeowners:
Replacing cabinet hardware
Hanging lightweight shelves (into studs or anchors)
Simple furniture assembly
Replacing showerheads or faucet aerators
Minor caulking or weatherstripping
Tip: If the project doesn’t involve electrical wiring, plumbing connections, or structural mounting, it’s usually DIY-friendly.
⚠️ Projects That Are Best Left to a Professional
These are the jobs we most often see go wrong — even when homeowners have good intentions.
🔌 Electrical Work
Light fixtures
Ceiling fans
Switches and outlets
Smart thermostats
Mistakes here can cause shorts, tripped breakers, or fire risks. Even small wiring errors matter.
🚰 Plumbing Connections
Dishwashers
Garbage disposals
Faucets with supply lines
Toilets
Leaks aren’t always immediate — slow drips behind cabinets can cause major damage over time.
🧰 Appliance Installation
Dishwashers
Microwaves
Ranges
Haul-away of old appliances
Appliances need to be level, secured, vented correctly, and connected to power and water safely. Improper installs are one of the most common reasons appliances fail early.
📺 Mounting & Structural Work
TVs
Heavy shelving
Wall-mounted fixtures
Mounting into drywall without proper anchors or studs can lead to wall damage — or worse, injuries.
💡 Why Hiring a Professional Can Save You Money
Many homeowners call us after a DIY attempt goes wrong. At that point, the job often costs more because we’re fixing damage in addition to completing the original task.
Working with a professional means:
The job is done correctly the first time
Your home and appliances are protected
You save time, stress, and guesswork
You have accountability if something isn’t right
🏠 A Balanced Approach Is the Smartest One
DIY doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Many homeowners handle simple tasks themselves and call us for anything involving:
Electrical
Plumbing
Appliances
Safety or structural concerns
That’s a smart way to protect your home and your budget.
📅 Need Help? We Make It Easy.
Harrison Home Solutions offers:
Professional, insured service
Clear, upfront pricing
Easy online booking
Service throughout Carmel, Zionsville & North Indianapolis