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Easter DIY could be costly

Homeowners have been warned that they could end up facing a nasty repair bill if they get carried away with DIY projects over the Easter weekend.

Insurers have warned that over-enthusiastic amateurs could end up causing damage to their property and invalidating their insurance policy.

With no insurance, they could find themselves having take out a loan to put things right at a time when the credit crunch is biting hard.

"TV home makeover shows make it all appear so simple, and it's easy to forget that these are highly skilled professionals," said Martyn Foulds, senior claims manager at the Halifax.

"In reality, trying to tackle certain areas you are not qualified for such as electrics or plumbing could invalidate your home insurance policy, leaving you liable for any subsequent damage.

"We'd recommend using a reputable tradesman rather than going it alone," he added.

Research by Halifax revealed that a third of men would prefer not to be doing DIY this Easter weekend at all, but they feel pressured by their partners to get on with it anyway.

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