Decision support does not replace a safety assessment

Stop where gas, fixed electrics, fire protection, structural movement, pressurised systems or immediate danger is involved.

KEY DECISION FACTORS

Use evidence, not guesswork

Immediate danger Fire, gas, shock, collapse and severe water entry need urgent action.

Regulated systems Gas, fixed electrics and life-safety systems require competence.

Structural work Movement, supports and load-bearing elements need proper assessment.

Specialist equipment Some faults cannot be diagnosed safely with household tools.

INTERACTIVE TOOL

When to Call a Professional

Tick the statements or items that apply. Progress saves automatically on this device.

There is smoke, burning smell, sparking, gas smell or a carbon monoxide alarm. Water is near fixed electrical equipment or the consumer unit. A wall, roof, floor, balcony, deck or fence may collapse. The work involves gas, mains electrics, fire alarms or pressurised systems. The fault affects fire escape, security or life-safety protection. Access requires unsafe ladders, roof work or lifting heavy glazing. The same repair has failed repeatedly. You cannot identify the isolation point, part or safe method.

Select the statements that apply Your result will update automatically.

Notes and follow-up

✓ How to use this tool safely Checks before making a repair decision. ⌄

Stop and isolate the hazard where safe.
Keep people away from unstable or contaminated areas.
Do not continue simply because tools are available.
Record symptoms, photos and fault codes.
Choose a competent specialist for the system involved.

⌁ Why this planning step matters How better preparation prevents repeat work. ⌄

Many serious incidents happen when a manageable fault becomes unsafe through repeated attempts, incorrect parts or lack of isolation.

⌘ Advanced planning checks Extra information worth collecting. ⌄

Check qualifications and insurance.
Request written scope and quotation.
Ask what testing and certification will be provided.
Confirm who is responsible for making good.
Keep service and repair records.

◇ Useful tools and information Items that make the decision more accurate. ⌄

Phone
Photos and notes
Model information
Isolation details
Emergency contact list

! When to call a professional Conditions that should end basic DIY planning. ⌄

Any high-risk answer is selected.
The hazard cannot be isolated.
The fault affects multiple systems.
You are unsure whether the work is regulated.
Temporary repairs are no longer containing the problem.

? Frequently asked questions Common repair-planning questions. ⌄

Does calling a professional mean the job is complicated?

Not always. It may simply be regulated, hazardous or require specialist testing.

Can I do the preparation myself?

Often yes, such as clearing access and recording symptoms, provided it is safe.

What information should I provide?

Photos, model details, fault history and any isolation already carried out.