5 Tips to Help New Homeowners Prepare for Repair

One of the joys of homeownership is the freedom it provides. You no longer have to worry about cramped quarters full of dozens of other tenants, or having to rely on a landlord whenever something goes wrong with your apartment. Of course, this also means that any repairs that need to be made fall solely on your shoulders. This can be jarring for new homeowners, who are used to having someone else foot the bill whenever a leaky faucet or faulty electrical outlet needs to be fixed.

And while you could google a local plumber or handyman service, many minor repairs can be easily made by rolling up your sleeves and doing the job yourself. You just need to know where to begin.

If you are a first-time homeowner who needs a crash course in basic home maintenance, I have compiled a list of 5 tips that will help you prepare for repair.

The Right Tools for the Right Job

As soon as you move into your new home, you should begin assembling the tools you will need to make any necessary repairs. A basic toolbox containing essentials like screwdrivers, a tape measure, pliers, a hammer, duct tape and wrenches are a must. Also consider investing in a ladder or foot stool, as well as power drill. Then when something is in need of repair, you’ll be ready.

Know Where Everything Is

When making repairs to your home, you may need to temporarily turn off the water or electricity to certain areas. Knowing where and how to do this can save you some time. Make sure you know where your breaker box is located, as well as the shutoff valves for your water supply. It’s also a good idea to make sure your breaker box is labeled correctly, to avoid any potential injuries when you are making repairs.

Learn to Identify Warning Signs

Looking out for early warning signs can help you identify potential problems before they become severe. For example, a faucet that suddenly has a drop in water pressure could indicate sediment buildup or other clogs in your pipes. If left untreated, this can lead to corrosion and a burst pipe. Be on the lookout for changes that could indicate the need for repair, and you could prevent a small issue from becoming a catastrophe.

Know Your Limitations

Knowing what repairs you can handle, and what repairs are best left to professionals, is an important distinction. Sure, you may feel like you can tackle any job after unclogging a drain or fixing a leaky faucet, but some jobs are beyond the scope of what an untrained person should perform. Electrical work, large-scale installations, and major plumbing repair should be handled by a licensed pro. Knowing your limits can keep you and your home safe.

YouTube it

YouTube is an excellent resource for virtually any home repair project you can imagine. How-to books can be helpful, but many people prefer the visual guide online tutorials provide. Before tackling any project for the first time, make sure to watch a few videos to give you an idea of what you are getting into.

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