Need a little more living space and looking to add on to your home? If you’re handy, you might be wondering if you can take on this project by yourself. Here are some things to consider before embarking on a DIY home addition and what you might want to hire help for.
Can I Do It on My Own?
Be honest about your skillset. While tackling some home projects solo is commendable, complete DIY home additions or demolitions are best left to the professionals – especially if you lack contracting experience. Going it entirely alone can lead to costly mistakes, like code violations or improper material usage. Experts bring valuable training and skills to the table, ensuring your project runs smoothly and safely.
Where to Hire Help
Here are the areas that you’ll want to consider hiring help for when you are working on your home addition.
Design
Starting strong with a professional is key! Hiring a contractor or architect helps develop a solid design plan. They’ll draft it, complete with specifications, all adhering to local codes. Most importantly, they can assist you in submitting the plan for approval by your city’s building and zoning department before construction begins.
Permits
While not technically “hiring help,” obtaining the necessary permits is crucial. Collaborate with your local government to gather all required permits. Don’t overlook displaying them prominently throughout your project – it’s the law!
Excavation
Before any digging commences, dial 811, the national “call before you dig” hotline. This crucial step ensures you don’t damage underground utility lines. They’ll notify utility companies to mark buried cables, electrical lines, water, or gas lines on your property. Hitting a utility line is a recipe for danger and project delays, along with hefty repair costs.
Waste Disposal
Construction projects generate mountains of waste. Save time and hassle by renting a dumpster for your site. The rental company handles delivery, removal, and emptying. A reputable dumpster rental company in Omaha, like redbox+ Dumpsters, understands waste disposal regulations, preventing unnecessary fees and fines.
Electrical
Unless you’re a licensed electrician, leave this to the pros! A skilled electrician guarantees your addition’s safe and proper electrical wiring. Electricity is not a DIY project – avoid potential fire hazards and electrocution risks.
Plumbing
The same applies to plumbing, especially if your addition includes a bathroom or extensive plumbing needs. Avoid disaster by calling a plumber from the get-go – save yourself from plumbing woes and potential flooding.
Portable Toilet
If your DIY project involves contractor crews, consider renting a portable toilet for your property. For a one-stop shop, skip searching for separate toilet and dumpster rentals. redbox+ Dumpsters offers the exclusive Elite container – a two-in-one marvel combining a roll-off dumpster with a portable toilet! Our Elite units extend convenience throughout your project, and our team handles on-site cleaning and servicing of the toilet, eliminating that chore for you.
If you’re looking to complete a DIY home addition in Omaha, let redbox+ of Omaha help with the waste removal. We have a variety of dumpsters for any size project, including out Elite portable toilet/dumpster combo. Don’t worry about trips to the dumpster or any other waste management worries, just give us a call! Get a free estimate today by calling 402-251-2211.