Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Category:
Home Improvements
According to Sainsbury’s Home Insurance, an estimated 65 percent of British adults have embarked upon DIY in the past 12 months to avoid paying for professionals.
This equates to virtually 30 million individuals; who have been engaging in tasks such as painting, plumbing and tiling. In doing so, a reported £49 billion has been saved throughout the course of the year.
However, Sainsbury’s has pointed out that homeowners may find their insurance to be invalid where certain projects have been tackled without adhering to the relevant compliance procedures. Projects of this nature include those involving electricity in high-risk areas of the home such as kitchens, bathrooms and gardens. In the past 12 months 11 percent have carried out such work themselves, along with work which requires Building Control notification. Other projects that could invalidate a homeowner’s insurance without first informing the provider can include structural changes ranging from loft conversions to rear extensions.
It would seem that painting has been undertaken by the greatest proportion of British adults in the past year, at 51 percent. Second to this, at 38 percent, is reported to be ‘minor electrical tasks’ such as fitting lights or replacing plug sockets. It was also found that 21 percent have taken on plumbing tasks such as removing radiators or fixing leaks in order to save the pennies.
Sainsbury's Home Insurance manager, Joanne Mallon, commented: "DIY is a great way to save money and the sense of achievement when the job's done can be tremendous, so don't ruin it by exposing yourself to calamity. Check you have good accidental damage cover and check that your insurer will cover you whilst you undertake the work, and whatever you do, make sure you use a registered electrician to carry out any major electrical works".
In terms of a comparison between the number of men and women taking on DIY challenges, there is no notable divide at 69 percent and 62 percent respectively. However, geographically it was noted that the North West and Wales are home to the most significant number of DIY enthusiasts at 72 percent. In contrast, Londoners are least likely to embark upon home improvements themselves.
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Those that are hankering after home improvements, but do not have the funds or the know-how to get the job done, may wish to consider a
home improvement loan. A home improvement loan could provide the funds needed to creating that ideal living space. For some, this may include fitting a new kitchen, bathroom, or both. For others, a conservatory or extension may be desired for that extra space. Other space creating projects which could be funded with a home improvement loan include loft conversions and basement conversions. Converting upwards and downwards as well as outwards, could create all the extra living space needed to accommodate a growing family.
