DIY vs Hire a Pro
Not every project needs a contractor, but not every project should be DIY. Use this guide to make smart decisions about when to tackle it yourself and when to call in the professionals.
The Golden Rule: If a mistake could cause injury, property damage, or require expensive professional repair, strongly consider hiring from the start.
6 Factors to Consider
Before starting any project, evaluate these factors honestly.
Safety Risk
Could you injure yourself or others? Electrical, gas, and structural work carry serious risks.
Hire if: Any risk of electrocution, fire, gas leak, or structural failure
Permit Required
Permitted work often requires licensed contractors and professional inspections.
Hire if: Work requiring permits usually needs licensed professional
Skill Level
Be honest about your abilities. Watching a YouTube video isn't the same as experience.
Hire if: Never done anything similar, or past DIY attempts failed
Tools Required
Specialty tools can cost more than hiring someone who already owns them.
Hire if: Tool cost exceeds 50% of hiring cost, or one-time use only
Time Available
DIY always takes longer than you think. Factor in learning time and mistakes.
Hire if: Project impacts daily life (kitchen, bathroom) and you need it done fast
Cost of Mistakes
What happens if you mess up? Some mistakes are cheap to fix, others are catastrophic.
Hire if: Mistake could cause water damage, mold, or require complete redo
Quick Decision Guide
Could someone get hurt if done wrong?
Yes
Hire a pro
No
Continue
Does it require a permit?
Yes
Usually hire
No
Continue
Have you done this (or similar) before?
No
Research heavily first
Yes
Continue
Can you afford the time if it takes 3x longer?
No
Consider hiring
Yes
DIY is viable
If you made it here: DIY is likely a good choice!
Just make sure to research thoroughly and have a backup plan.
Project-by-Project Guide
Common home projects organized by DIY feasibility.
Almost Always DIY
Low risk, minimal skill required, mistakes are easy to fix
Painting walls
Time-consuming but straightforward. Mistakes just need another coat.
Replacing cabinet hardware
Just screws. Worst case, you fill wrong holes.
Installing curtain rods
Basic drilling. Patch holes if placement is wrong.
Caulking tubs/sinks
Cheap materials, easy redo if it doesn't look right.
Replacing light switch covers
No electrical work, just snapping on covers.
Hanging shelves
Use a level and stud finder. Patch holes if needed.
Assembling furniture
Follow instructions. Time-consuming but doable.
Replacing toilet seat
Two bolts. Under 10 minutes.
Changing HVAC filters
Slide out old, slide in new. No tools needed.
Installing smart thermostat
Usually just wire matching. Most have great instructions.
DIY If Comfortable
Moderate skill needed, some risk, do your research first
Replacing a faucet
Water shutoffs make it safe. Watch tutorials first.
Installing a ceiling fan
If box exists and you're comfortable with wiring. Turn off breaker!
Replacing light fixtures
Basic wiring knowledge needed. Always turn off power.
Installing laminate flooring
Click-lock is DIY-friendly. Measure twice, cut once.
Replacing interior doors
Pre-hung doors simplify this. Getting it level is key.
Basic tile backsplash
Peel-and-stick is easy. Real tile needs more skill.
Garbage disposal replacement
Mainly plumbing connections. Watch the electrical.
Toilet replacement
Heavy and awkward, but not complicated.
Building a simple deck
Ground-level, freestanding decks are DIY-able. Elevated = hire.
Fence repair/replacement
Labor-intensive but straightforward. Post holes are the hard part.
Consider Hiring
Higher skill/risk, permits often required, mistakes are costly
Bathroom remodel
Plumbing, electrical, waterproofing all in one. Lots to go wrong.
Kitchen remodel
Complexity of coordinating trades. Mistakes affect daily life.
Hardwood floor refinishing
Rental equipment + technique. Easy to ruin expensive floors.
Window replacement
Proper installation prevents leaks and drafts. Warranty often requires pro.
Water heater replacement
Heavy, involves gas or high-voltage. Permits usually required.
Exterior painting (2+ stories)
Fall risk from ladders/scaffolding. Pros have proper equipment.
Major plumbing changes
Moving pipes requires permits and inspection.
Basement finishing
Moisture issues, egress requirements, multiple trades involved.
Adding a bathroom
Plumbing rough-in is complex. Permits definitely required.
Garage door replacement
Spring tension is dangerous. Pros handle this safely.
Almost Always Hire
High risk, licensed professional required, code compliance critical
Electrical panel upgrade
Life safety issue. Requires licensed electrician and permit.
New electrical circuits
Fire and shock risk. Code compliance is critical.
Gas line work
Explosion and carbon monoxide risk. Never DIY gas.
Main sewer line repair
Specialized equipment, permits, usually involves excavation.
Structural modifications
Load-bearing walls, beams require engineer approval.
Roof replacement
Fall risk, waterproofing critical, warranty requires pro installation.
HVAC installation
Sizing, ductwork, refrigerant handling all require expertise.
Foundation repair
Structural integrity of your home. Always hire specialists.
Asbestos/lead removal
Health hazard. Requires certified abatement professionals.
Tree removal (large)
Fall risk, property damage risk, often requires permits.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs Pro
Real cost comparisons for common projects. Remember: your time has value too.
| Project | DIY Cost | DIY Time | Pro Cost | Pro Time | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interior painting (room) | $100-200 | 8-12 hours | $300-600 | 4-6 hours | DIY saves 50-70% |
| Replace faucet | $100-300 | 2-4 hours | $200-450 | 1-2 hours | DIY saves $100-200 |
| Install laminate floor (200 sqft) | $400-800 | 12-20 hours | $800-1,400 | 4-8 hours | DIY saves 40-50% |
| Bathroom remodel | $3,000-8,000 | 80-200 hours | $8,000-25,000 | 1-3 weeks | DIY saves 50%+ but high risk |
| Electrical panel upgrade | N/A | N/A | $1,500-3,000 | 4-8 hours | Always hire |
* Costs are approximate ranges and vary by location, materials, and complexity.
If You Decide to Hire
Do This
- +Get 3+ written quotes for comparison
- +Verify license and insurance (ask for proof)
- +Check reviews on multiple platforms
- +Ask for references and actually call them
- +Get everything in writing before work starts
- +Understand the payment schedule (never pay 100% upfront)
Red Flags
- -Demands full payment upfront
- -Only accepts cash (no paper trail)
- -Pressure to sign immediately ("today only" pricing)
- -No physical address or just a P.O. box
- -Won't provide written estimate
- -Quote is significantly below everyone else's
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find a good contractor?
Start with recommendations from neighbors, friends, or family. Check reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Verify their license on your state's contractor licensing board website. Get at least 3 quotes and compare not just price, but scope, timeline, and communication style.
What should be in a contractor's written quote?
A detailed scope of work, materials to be used (brands/models), start and completion dates, payment schedule, what's included vs excluded, permit responsibility, warranty information, and how changes will be handled. Vague quotes lead to surprise costs.
What if I start DIY and realize I'm in over my head?
Stop before you make it worse. It's okay to call a pro mid-project - they've seen it before. Be honest about what you did and any problems you encountered. Yes, it might cost more than if you'd hired them initially, but it's better than creating a bigger problem.
Is hiring always more expensive than DIY?
Not always. Factor in tool purchases/rentals, potential mistakes, your time value, and opportunity cost. A pro who does this daily will be faster and may get trade discounts on materials. For complex projects, pros often aren't much more expensive than DIY gone wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a project is too hard for me?
Ask yourself: Have I done anything similar before? Do I have the right tools? What happens if I mess up? If the answer to the first two is no and the mistake could cause significant damage or safety issues, it's probably too advanced. Start with smaller projects to build skills before tackling bigger ones.
What are the best beginner DIY projects?
Start with: painting walls, replacing cabinet hardware, installing a new showerhead or faucet aerator, caulking tubs/showers, replacing outlet covers, weatherstripping doors, and basic landscaping. These projects are forgiving, teach fundamental skills, and have visible results.
How much can I really save doing DIY?
Labor typically accounts for 40-60% of project costs. On a $500 job, you might save $200-300 by doing it yourself. However, factor in your time value, potential mistakes, and tool purchases. Sometimes hiring is actually cheaper when you account for everything.
What tools should every homeowner have?
Essential toolkit: tape measure, level, screwdriver set, adjustable wrench, pliers, hammer, cordless drill, stud finder, utility knife, flashlight, and safety glasses. Add a pry bar, socket set, and oscillating multi-tool for more advanced work.
Should I get permits even for small projects?
Check your local requirements - rules vary significantly. Generally, cosmetic work (painting, flooring) doesn't need permits, but anything involving electrical, plumbing, structural changes, or HVAC usually does. When in doubt, call your local building department. Getting caught without permits is much more expensive.
How do I find a good contractor?
Get at least 3 quotes. Check reviews, ask for references and contact them. Verify license and insurance. Be wary of the lowest bid - quality contractors are rarely cheapest. Get everything in writing including timeline, payment schedule, and what happens if issues arise.
What should I never DIY?
Never DIY: electrical panel work, gas lines, structural modifications (load-bearing walls), main sewer line repairs, roof replacement on steep slopes, asbestos/lead removal, or anything requiring specialized licensing. The risks far outweigh any savings.
Can I start a project DIY and hire someone to finish?
Yes, but it often costs more than hiring from the start. Many contractors charge extra to fix DIY work or refuse the job entirely. If you want to save money this way, do the demo and prep work yourself (clearing the area, removing old materials) and let pros handle the skilled work.
Ready to Start Your Project?
Whether you DIY or hire, we have checklists to guide you through the process.