DIY doesn’t mean Do-it-YouTube

Published May 26, 2015

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London – Public holidays are among the prime times for people to dust off their toolbox and indulge in a spot of DIY.

But those about to reach for the paintbrush or the drill are increasingly likely to go for the laptop too, as new research shows that a quarter of the British population now rely on the video-sharing site YouTube for home-improvement help.

While this may be a useful starting point, there's a price to pay for not getting things right: according to the study, by the insurance company Towergate, one in five of these people have had to call in an expert to put things right after mishaps, with an average bill of £5,000 (R92,000).

Even though 80 percent of Britons have no qualifications or training, Lloyds has just released research showing that we're spending £5.5bn a year on DIY. And Towergate reports that more and more of us are attempting ambitious, large-scale or complex DIY work, including flooring, bathroom refitting, extensions, roofing, and electrical or plumbing work.

Further findings reveal it is not just young people who are turning to YouTube, with 28 percent of people across all age groups using the site for renovation help. This compares with 25 percent consulting a qualified friend or family member, and just 12 percent receiving their guidance from a DIY store or DIY TV show.

“With YouTube emerging as a key education resource, it is understandable that people are turning to video tutorials for guidance on DIY work,” says Drew Wotherspoon from Towergate. “However, undertaking ambitious projects with little or no formal training can have serious repercussions financially.”

While it's fine to attempt simple DIY tasks, “for more specialist jobs involving gas, electrical, plumbing or structural work, it's essential to call in a qualified expert,” says Martyn Foulds from Halifax Home Insurance. “After all, you don't want to damage your property or put yourself – or others – at risk. In addition, you risk invalidating your home insurance if things do go awry.” – The Independent

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