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While some home improvement projects are just perfect for the do-it-yourselfer, there are some projects that are better left to professionals.

Remodeling projects involving major electrical or plumbing changes, local inspections and permits, or danger to the homeowner are projects perfect for professional contractors.

While most homeowners can easily manage to change a light fixture, re-wiring an entire bathroom or bedroom may be a daunting task. In addition, your county may require an electrical permit which often must be acquired by a professional electrician through the county building regulations department.

Major plumbing changes can cause problems for homeowners as well. Small tasks such as changing a garbage disposal, unclogging a drain, or changing a tub fixture may be in reach for some homeowners. Problems may arise though with the addition of plumbing to a new bathroom or the installation of a new water heater. Just like electrical work, major plumbing remodels often require a permit which often must be obtained by a professional plumber.

Not obtaining the proper permits within your county or state (including electrical, plumbing, framing, or occupancy permits) can sometimes cause the county to come to your location and declare your home inhabitable, which makes obtaining the proper inspections and permits very important to your home improvement project.

Some remodeling projects may be dangerous for some homeowners, which also may require the use of a professional. What is safe for one homeowner, may be unsafe for another. While you may feel safe in climbing on your roof to tack on a few shingles or replace your gutters, the task may be too big for some homeowners. Any task that puts the homeowner in a dangerous situation is better suited to professional contractors.

Remodeling professionals and contractors are not difficult to find. Ask for references from neighbors and friends, or the local Chamber of Commerce. You may also be able to locate contractors in the newspaper or online through a remodeling and home improvement social network. After finding someone that is a good fit for the job you need done, be sure to check the Better Business Bureau (http://www.bbb.org to see if the company has any bad marks against its services.

Part of being a good do-it-yourselfer is knowing when to tackle the project yourself or assign it to someone else.

Learn more about this author, Starla Ross.
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