During a recent training course we were reminded about the dangers to owners who undertake renovations and repairs themselves. The issue is one of insurance cover and the risk that insurers will not cover incidences that may arise from renovations or repairs done by owners, that should legally have been done by licensed tradespeople.

Any job that would normally require a license – electrical, plumbing, or building work must be done by a licensed tradesperson for the insurance cover to be fully effective.

This is particularly important for investment property owners, where compliance and safety measures must be strictly abided by. If you take on owner renovations and repairs without having a comprehensive understanding of legal obligations, you can unknowingly void your insurance policy. That means if something goes wrong, you could be left personally liable for additional repairs. 

Even minor works can have huge consequences if not completed by trained professionals. Take DIY waterproofing for example. If you attempt this job without the proper certification, it could compromise your property’s structural integrity and also lead to denied insurance claims. 

To protect both your property and your financial wellbeing, always engage licensed trades for any work that falls within a regulated category. It may cost more upfront, but it ensures you remain fully covered, compliant, and confident that your investment is secure.

Make sure any renovations that need to be are done by a licensed tradesperson.