In the age of YouTube tutorials and home improvement shows, more homeowners than ever are picking up power tools and giving DIY projects a shot. While we love seeing people take pride in maintaining their homes, we’ve also seen how a well-meaning repair can quickly spiral into a costly restoration emergency.
Here is a (anonymous, but real) case study from right here in Oregon and what we wish more homeowners knew before starting that “simple” project.
Case #1: Handle with Caution
Location: Salem, OR
The Project: Remove bathtub handle for a quick cosmetic update.
What Went Wrong: The homeowner removed the tub handle attempting to repair it without realizing it was connected to the tub spout. The spout began spraying water uncontrollably, flooding the bathroom and surrounding areas. Water seeped through the ceiling into the kitchen, spread into the dining and laundry rooms, and soaked carpeted and hardwood areas on both floors.
The Fix: Our team responded quickly and documented the loss. Water had impacted the master bedroom, bathroom, closet, stairways, hallways, and even a patch of ceiling inside the garage. Rescue mats were set up to salvage hardwood floors, and drying equipment was installed throughout the home. While there was no crawlspace (the house sits over the garage), extensive drying and monitoring were needed to prevent long-term structural or mold issues.
Why It Pays to Call a Professional First
DIY has its place, but when it comes to plumbing, electrical systems, or structural work, mistakes can turn minor fixes into major insurance claims.
At ServiceMaster, we’ve seen it all and we’re here to help when things go wrong. But more importantly, we’re here to prevent problems when you’re unsure. Our experts offer:
24/7 emergency response
Professional moisture detection tools
Certified mold remediation
Fire and smoke damage restoration
Full project documentation for insurance claims
Image from Case Study #1
Thinking About a Project? Ask Us First.
If you're unsure whether a project could affect plumbing, electrical, or structural components, call ServiceMaster before you start. We’ll gladly connect you with trusted contractors or be your emergency backup if things don’t go as planned.
Proudly serving Salem, Eugene, Corvallis, Lincoln City, and surrounding Oregon communities.
