Why Landlords Should Avoid DIY Repairs at Their Investment Property

When something breaks at your rental property, it can be tempting to fix it yourself or allow tenants to give it a try. Trades can be busy, costs can add up and everyone wants a quick solution. It feels simple in the moment, but DIY repairs often create bigger and more expensive problems.

DIY attempts are more common than many landlords realise. A national survey found that 4.2 million Australian households experienced a DIY disaster in just twelve months, often because the job was more complex than expected. For landlords, the risks are even greater, especially around insurance, safety, compliance and long term property value.

Here is why repairs at an investment property should always be handled by licensed professionals.

DIY repairs can put your insurance at risk

Landlord insurance policies are very specific about repair requirements. Damage caused by unlicensed, unsafe or non-compliant work is usually not covered. 

Even a small DIY fix can create issues if the insurer believes the repair was not completed to the required standards.

Common problems include:

• DIY work that worsens the original issue
• repairs that do not meet Queensland safety requirements
• work completed by someone who is not qualified or licensed
• the landlord failing to maintain the property to a reasonable standard

If an insurer decides the property was not properly maintained, they may decline the claim. In more serious cases, they may consider it a breach of policy conditions, leaving the landlord responsible for the full cost of repairs.

Compliance and safety standards matter

Investment properties must meet strict safety requirements to ensure tenants are living in a compliant environment. DIY repairs can unintentionally breach these standards, especially when they involve electrical systems, plumbing, waterproofing, drainage, structural work or smoke alarms.

Unlicensed repairs can lead to safety hazards, fines and voided warranties. The risk is even higher if a tenant is injured because of incorrect work. In these situations, legal responsibility may fall on the landlord.

DIY repairs often cost more over time

DIY may appear cheaper at first, but the long-term cost is usually far higher. Research shows that almost 40 per cent of DIY projects end up costing more than expected, either because the repair fails or because the problem becomes worse and requires professional intervention.

Poor or incomplete repairs can lead to:

• further damage that requires additional work
• longer downtime for tenants
• unnecessary frustration
• significantly higher repair bills

Licensed tradespeople carry insurance and guarantee their work. If something goes wrong, their insurance covers it and their charges are fully tax deductible. DIY work cannot offer that protection.

DIY can encourage tenants to follow suit

When landlords attempt their own repairs, tenants often feel they can do the same. This can lead to unapproved cosmetic changes, incorrect installations, patchy repairs or attempts to fix plumbing and fittings.

Tenant DIY carries the same insurance and compliance risks as landlord DIY. Many of these issues are not discovered until the damage becomes more extensive.

Professional repairs protect your investment

Well managed, high quality repairs help preserve the long term value of your investment property. Proper maintenance supports stronger tenant relationships, fewer disputes and better rental outcomes. It also ensures the property remains compliant, safe and fully insured.

Leave repairs to the experts

DIY may seem quick or convenient, but the risks outweigh the benefits. Licensed professionals ensure your property stays compliant, safe and protected.

Here at Aurora Property, we work closely with a network of trusted, licensed trades and manage the entire coordination process for you. If something at your investment property needs attention, we arrange the appropriate professional, keep tenants informed and ensure you are updated every step of the way.

Our goal is to make maintenance simple, timely and stress-free, so you can feel confident knowing your property is well looked after.