ProAssist
Free Resource
Home Repair
Cheat Sheet
15 repairs every homeowner can tackle safely — plus when to call a pro, and what to do in an emergency.
DIY-Safe Repairs — Do These Yourself
| Issue | Quick Fix | Time | Saves |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garbage disposal jam | Use the hex key (under unit) to free the jam; press reset button | 5 min | $150 |
| Clogged drain | Plunger → baking soda + vinegar → snake (for hair/soft clogs) | 10 min | $120 |
| Running toilet | Adjust or replace flapper; check float arm height in tank | 15 min | $200 |
| Dripping faucet | Replace worn O-ring or cartridge (shut off supply valve first) | 30 min | $150 |
| Squeaky door hinge | Apply petroleum jelly or 3-in-1 oil to hinge pins | 2 min | $80 |
| Small drywall hole (< 4") | Patch kit + joint compound + sand + paint | 1 hr (+ dry time) | $180 |
| GFCI outlet won't reset | Check for tripped GFCI further upstream; press Reset firmly | 5 min | $120 |
| Circuit breaker trips | Unplug devices on circuit, then reset breaker once | 5 min | $100 |
| Caulk around tub/shower | Remove old caulk → clean → dry 24 hrs → apply silicone caulk | 45 min | $200 |
| Water heater pilot out | Follow relight instructions on unit label (gas only — no smell of gas) | 10 min | $150 |
| Stuck garbage disposal | Press reset button on bottom; use hex key to manually turn | 5 min | $150 |
| Slow-flush toilet | Clean rim holes with wire; check fill valve; adjust water level | 20 min | $120 |
| Replace light switch | Turn off breaker → photo wiring → swap switch → test | 20 min | $100 |
| Weather stripping | Peel off old strip; measure; cut and press new adhesive strip | 30 min | $80 |
| Smoke detector chirp | Replace 9V battery; test; replace unit if > 10 years old | 5 min | $50 |
Always Call a Pro — Don't DIY These
| Issue | Why You Need a Pro |
|---|---|
| Electrical panel work | Arc flash risk; requires permits and licensed electrician |
| Gas line repair/install | Explosion and CO risk; licensed plumber or gas fitter required |
| Structural changes | Load-bearing walls need engineering assessment |
| Main water line | Permit required; city shutoff needed |
| Roof replacement | Height safety + warranty + permit requirements |
Emergency Protocol — Act Fast
Gas smell indoors
Leave immediately → call 911 → call gas company from outside
Electrical sparks/burning smell
Turn off main breaker → call electrician → call 911 if fire
Burst pipe / flooding
Shut off main water valve → call emergency plumber
Sewage backup
Stop all water use → call licensed plumber immediately