What am I able to repair without trades

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What am I able to repair without trades

Jeremiah Dunakin
Member since 2022 · 186 posts · 192 votes

So I am half way handy. I can do a lot of basic plumbing and electrical things.My question what things am I allowed to do? Can I change out flickering light switches? Run new plumbing lines to faucet/ tub. The rental I have I remodeled by myself and lived in it for awhile. I gutted bathroom and kitchen and remodeled them. I did have electrician do some wiring for me. I had them install some new outlets for me. Can I change out existing plugs and outlets or fix cracked pipes. I live in Michigan 

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Steve Vaughan
Rental Property Investor · East Wenatchee, WA · Member since 2014 · 10k+ posts · 16k+ votes
3y
Quote from @Jeremiah Dunakin:

So I am half way handy. I can do a lot of basic plumbing and electrical things.My question what things am I allowed to do? Can I change out flickering light switches? Run new plumbing lines to faucet/ tub. The rental I have I remodeled by myself and lived in it for awhile. I gutted bathroom and kitchen and remodeled them. I did have electrician do some wiring for me. I had them install some new outlets for me. Can I change out existing plugs and outlets or fix cracked pipes. I live in Michigan 

If you own the rental, you have more leeway for sure.   
For electrical I do all but new circuitry and serious stuff.   Plugs, switches, fixtures no problem if you're competent. 
Plumbing I've done most from valve to fixture. New drain lines (may need a trap or studor vent) or from meter to dwelling I hire a pro.  
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  • Steve Vaughan
    Rental Property Investor · East Wenatchee, WA · Member since 2014 · 10k+ posts · 16k+ votes
    3y
    Quote from @Jeremiah Dunakin:

    So I am half way handy. I can do a lot of basic plumbing and electrical things.My question what things am I allowed to do? Can I change out flickering light switches? Run new plumbing lines to faucet/ tub. The rental I have I remodeled by myself and lived in it for awhile. I gutted bathroom and kitchen and remodeled them. I did have electrician do some wiring for me. I had them install some new outlets for me. Can I change out existing plugs and outlets or fix cracked pipes. I live in Michigan 

    If you own the rental, you have more leeway for sure.   
    For electrical I do all but new circuitry and serious stuff.   Plugs, switches, fixtures no problem if you're competent. 
    Plumbing I've done most from valve to fixture. New drain lines (may need a trap or studor vent) or from meter to dwelling I hire a pro.  
    2Reply
  • Richard F.
    Honolulu, HI · Member since 2008 · 3k+ posts · 2k+ votes
    3y
    Aloha,

    You need to check local laws or visit the building department for info. Also realize the liability you create for yourself if a tenant or their guests get injured by your half way handywork, regardless if it happens to be plumbing, electrical, HVAC, or carpentry.
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  • Elliot Shoener
    Real Estate Broker · Atlanta, GA · Member since 2019 · 34 posts · 23 votes
    3y

    You can fix anything in your own property/investment property. The only issue I can see is IF there was an issue with the fix. For example you fix a faulty light switch but then the house catches fire.  You'd be on the hook.  Hiring a licensed person shares some liability with that trade. That said, I fix most of my properties and other than that I have a skilled handyman which is not licensed etc.  Just know the risk. A good liability insurance policy may be the way to go.

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  • Drew SygitBusiness Member
    Property Manager · Royal Oak, MI · Member since 2012 · 12k+ posts · 9k+ votes
    3y

    @Jeremiah Dunakin In Michigan, if you owner-occupy a property, you can pull your own permits with the city.

    If you do NOT live in the property, you are required to have a licensed contractor pull any required permits.

    You do not need permits to: paint, caulk, replace faucets, replace electrical plugs & switches, minor plumbing leaks and electrical issues, etc.

    Installing/replacing electrical wiring and plumbing lines usually requires a permit.

    [email protected]248-209-6824
    Logical Property Management4.9450 Reviews
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  • Jeremiah Dunakin
    OP
    Member since 2022 · 186 posts · 192 votes
    3y

    Wow thanks everyone for the info. It really helps get my mind focused. I appreciate it 

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  • Nathan GesnerBusiness Member
    Moderator
    Real Estate Broker · Cody, WY · Member since 2010 · 28k+ posts · 41k+ votes
    3y

    I agree with the others. As the owner, you can usually do most of the work yourself. Talk to the building inspector's office and they can help you navigate this.

    The DIY Landlord Book4.7248 Reviews
    WebsiteView Page
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