Britons pay £1.5bn for DIY blunders

DIY related blunders cost UK residents £1.5 billion a year thanks to over ambitious odd-jobbers, research has found.

The massive bill is mainly caused by inexperience and can lead to home insurance claims of as much as £2,000.

On average the cost for a tradesman to repair a botched job is £280, with many DIY disasters being caused by inexperience, underestimating the task or not having adequate tools to complete the job.

The You Gov poll also found people are most likely to take on painting, bleeding radiators and doing up a bathroom.

However, if homeowners fail to plan properly they could be left with a hefty home insurance claim.

Steve Gilbert, from Zurich who commissioned the research, said: "With so many homeowners trying their hand at DIY, mistakes will happen. But as this research shows it's important to know your limits if you don't want to end up out of pocket.

"Doing it yourself can be a great achievement but we would like to remind all DIY novices that they can often endanger themselves and their property, so if you are unsure always call in a professional.

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