Is That A DIY Disaster?
5 Things Homeowners Often Mess Up (and How To Spot Them)
DIY home projects can be empowering… until they’re not. I’ve inspected many many homes around Kalispell and Whitefish, and I can tell you, some the the scariest issues I’ve found came from well-intentioned but poorly done DIY repairs or upgrades.
Here are 5 of the most common homeowner mistakes I find during home inspections and how you can spot them before they cost you time, money, or safety.
Electrical Work Without Permits or Know-How
This is by far one of the most common, and dangerous, DIY issues. Homeowners will add outlets, install light fixtures, or even wire entire additions without proper grounding, GCFI protection, or safe wire connections.
Signs to watch for:
Loose outlets or exposed wires.
Outlet/swith covers that don’t sit flush
Extension cords being used permanently
Why it matters: Faulty wiring is a fire hazard and can cost thousands to fix later.
Plumbing Patch Jobs
From dripping faucets to basement bathrooms, plumbing DIY can go very wrong. I often find leaky joints, improper slope on drain lines, and even shower pans installed with no waterproofing.
Signs to watch for:
Water stains under sinks or in ceilings
Slow drains or bad smells
PEX tubing spliced without proper fittings
Why it matters: Water damage is sneaky and can lead to mold, rot, and major repair bills.
Improper Deck or Stair Construction
Decks and exterior stairs are another favorite DIT project, but they’re often built with improper supports, no flashing, or missing structural anchors. Some are downright dangerous.
Signs to watch for:
Wobbly railings
No visible metal brackets ro lag bolts at ledger board
Decks pulling away from house
Why it matters: A deck collapse is a serious safety issue, especially during Montana winters when ice and snow makes everything heavier.
Window and Door Replacements Done Wrong
DIY window or door replacements often miss details like flashing, squareness, or insulation. The result? Drafts, leaks, and mold.
Signs to watch for:
Water stains below windows
Doors that stick or don’t latch
Unfinished trim or exposed gaps
Why it matters: Poorly installed windows and doors leat to heat loss and moisture problems in cold climates.
Cosmetic Cover-Ups (That Hide Bigger Problems)
This one can be tricky. DIYers may patch drywall, paint over water damage, or lay new flooring over old issues to make a home “show ready.” It looks good… but it’s hiding trouble.
Signs to watch for:
Fresh paint in only one area
Uneven flooring or mystery soft spots
No documentation or receipts for “upgrades”
Why it matters: Covering up a problem doesn’t solve it. It delays it until it costs way more to fix it.
Final Thoughts
DIY can save money, if it’s done right. But too often, homeowners skip permits, ignore safety codes, or watch just enough YouTube to get them into trouble. As a home inspector, I’ve seen the hidden issues, the safety risks, and the future headaches that come from DIY gone wrong in my own home!
Whether you’re buying, selling, or thinking about doing your own project, it pays to get a professional’s opinion before the mistakes become costly.
