Before you call a contractor, it pays to know what a repair actually costs. This guide gives you national-average price ranges for 30+ common home repairs — both what you’ll pay a pro and what the parts cost if you do it yourself.

The “You Save” column shows the maximum potential savings by going DIY (pro high estimate minus DIY low estimate). Actual savings depend on your specific situation, local labor rates, and your skill level.

How to Use This Table

DIY Cost is materials only — what you’ll spend at the hardware store. It doesn’t include tool rental or the value of your time.

Pro Cost includes labor and materials and reflects national averages. Urban markets and specialty contractors often run 20–40% higher. Get at least 3 quotes for any job over $500.

Difficulty ratings:

  • Beginner — Basic tool skills, no permits required in most areas. A careful first-timer can tackle these.
  • Intermediate — Requires some experience or specific technique. Mistakes are fixable but cost time and money.
  • Advanced — Structural, major electrical, or work requiring permits. DIY is possible but the risk of a costly mistake is real.

When to Call a Pro

Even skilled DIYers should call a licensed contractor when:

  • The repair involves load-bearing walls, the electrical panel, or main plumbing lines
  • A permit is required (unpermitted work can create title issues when you sell)
  • The repair connects to gas lines
  • You find unexpected damage (mold, rot, asbestos) during the initial fix

For everything else, this site has step-by-step guides. Use the Fix It Right Way guide library to find instructions for the specific repair you’re facing.