Brits urged to avoid £6,000 mistake this Bank Holiday weekend | Personal Finance | Finance

Bank holiday DIY enthusiasts who fancy taking advantage of the longer weekend to fix up their home may be risking a bill of up to £6,000 if they are not careful. Home insurance expert Niraj Mamtora said anyone looking to hang artwork or shelving over the late spring bank holiday should be aware they could easily hit a water pipe or electrical wiring.

He said: “Repairs for burst pipes can cost up to £600, while electrical damage may require rewiring, costing up to £6,000.” Mr Mamtora, director of Forum Insurance, said other DIY jobs people tackle over the long weekend might result in damage insurance companies may refuse to pay out for.

He said: “Not taking reasonable care and reckless work is one stipulation so always check that your insurance policy covers accidental damage. If it is included, you can further protect yourself by using a cable and pipe detector before drilling into walls or floors to avoid hidden hazards.”

Anyone who attempted plumbing or electrical work could also find themselves with a £5,000 bill, while neglecting routine maintenance could set someone back £1,500

Mr Mamtora said: “If there are two trades you should never attempt yourself, it’s plumbing and electrical work. Not many people are aware that tackling these tasks without proper qualifications can lead to accidents and invalidate your insurance policy. 

“For example, botched plumbing could result in water damage costing up to £5,000 to repair, while poor electrical work increases fire risks that could cost tens of thousands in damages.”

Mamtora said, “If you’re unsure what DIY task to tackle this weekend, you should start by inspecting your gutters and roof.

“Issues like blocked gutters, cracked walls, or damaged roof tiles can escalate into major problems if left unaddressed. What’s more, insurers may reject claims for damage caused by neglecting routine upkeep. For instance, water ingress from clogged gutters could cost hundreds in repairs, while roof damage can cost £1,500 to fix—or more if the damage is severe.”

He urged Brits to use the long weekend wisely. He said: “Always inspect and clean your gutters. You can remove loose debris with your hands, and larger debris can be flushed out with a hose. If you spot any damage, hire a professional to repair it promptly.”