Easter DIY plans for British homeowners

Monday, 6 April 2009 4:56 PM

Two surveys released today have found many of us have plans to do some DIY around the home this coming Easter weekend.

M&S Money and Halifax Home Insurance have both said their research shows many of us are thinking of spending Easter doing odd jobs around the home.

Halifax found over 34 per cent of homeowners surveyed are planning on DIY this weekend, while M&S Money found 28 per cent of the householders they surveyed are planning on staying in to do some DIY.

The M&S poll also revealed almost two-thirds, 64 per cent, of people are more likely to try to cut costs by attempting DIY rather than employing a tradesman.

Judith Roberts, M&S Insurance Manager, said: "Easter is always a popular time of the year to get jobs done around the home. The current financial climate means that even more people will be having a go at DIY, either as an alternative to moving home or instead of employing a professional.

"It's worth bearing in mind that DIY doesn't always go as planned. Insurance companies receive many claims involving DIY-related accidents.

"Always make sure you plan well before attempting DIY and seek professional advice if necessary. Also check that your home insurance policy covers you for accidental damage and whether there is a limit to that cover."

Despite this home improving interest, the Halifax Home Insurance research found 43 per cent of those surveyed admitted they are not as handy around the house as their parents' generation.

Fitting a new kitchen or bathroom, and tiling, were the jobs most people were most reluctant to do.

Head of underwriting for Halifax Home Insurance, David Rochester, said: "It all looks so easy on the home makeover programmes, but it is perhaps no bad thing that most people say they wouldn't attempt large DIY projects themselves.

"Trying to tackle areas you are not qualified for such as gas, electrics or plumbing work can invalidate a home insurance policy, leaving the homeowner liable for the cost of any subsequent damage."

When it comes to routine home maintenance, 17 per cent of people admit they wouldn't even feel confident changing a lightbulb, with more men than women admitting they'd be phased by the task.

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