Owning a home is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its fair share of maintenance and repair needs. Understanding common repair works needed in homes can help you stay prepared and keep your living space in top condition. Here are some of the most frequent issues homeowners face and tips on how to handle them.
Fixing Damp Walls
by Brina Blum
Damp walls can be a serious issue, leading to structural damage and health problems if not addressed promptly. In the majority of cases, damp is caused by poor ventilation, leaks, or rising ground moisture (rising damp). To fix damp walls, you should first identify the source of the moisture. Common solutions include improving ventilation, repairing leaks, and installing a damp-proof course.
How to Prevent Damp
Preventing damp is far easier (and much less stressful!) than fixing it. Ensure that your home is well-ventilated, especially in areas like the kitchen and bathroom where elevated moisture levels are found. Regularly check for leaks in your roof, walls, and plumbing. Using a dehumidifier can also help keep moisture levels in check.
Repairing Roof Leaks
Roof leaks are another common issue that can cause significant damage if left untreated. Leaks can be caused by broken tiles, clogged gutters, or damaged flashing. To repair a roof leak, you should first locate the source of the leak, which can be tricky. Once found, replace any damaged tiles, clean out the gutters, and fix or replace the flashing as needed.
Preventative Measures
Regular roof inspections can help you catch potential issues before they become major problems. Keep your gutters clean and clear of debris to prevent water from backing up and seeping into your roof.
How to Prevent Mould
To prevent mould, keep your home dry and well-ventilated. Use extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom, fix any leaks promptly, and consider using a dehumidifier. Regularly inspect areas prone to moisture, like basements and bathrooms, to catch mould early. Tenants should tell their landlord if ventilation systems stop working to prevent costly and difficult to deal with mould problems from developing.

Photo by Bence Balla-Schottner on Unsplash
Fixing Plumbing Issues
Plumbing problems, such as leaky taps, clogged drains, and running toilets, are common in many homes. These issues can waste water and lead to higher utility bills. To fix plumbing problems, you might need to replace worn-out washers, use a plunger or plumber’s snake, or adjust the float in your toilet tank.
Preventative Plumbing Maintenance
Regular maintenance can help prevent many plumbing issues. Check your taps and toilets for leaks, and clean your drains to prevent clogs. If you are in rented accommodation, contact your landlord immediately to report any issues with leaking taps or drains. If you live in an area with hard water, consider installing a water softener to reduce mineral buildup in your pipes.
Electrical Repairs
Electrical issues, such as faulty wiring or malfunctioning outlets, can be dangerous and should be addressed promptly. If you notice flickering lights, tripped breakers, or warm outlets, it’s important to call a licensed electrician. Attempting to fix electrical problems yourself can be dangerous, and even deadly.
Safety First
Safety must always be a priority when dealing with electrical issues. Regularly check your electrical system and sockets for signs of wear and tear, and never overload your circuits.
By understanding these common home repair issues and how to address them, you can keep your home in good shape and avoid costly repairs down the line.