When hiring a contractor costs less than doing it yourself
Summary
DIY often appears cheaper until materials are priced at retail, tool rentals are added and mistakes have to be corrected. Licensed contractors buy through trade supply houses, know what passes inspection, and include the permit, which a homeowner cannot file for electrical, plumbing or gas work in NYC.
Materials at trade prices
Licensed contractors hold trade accounts with electrical, plumbing and building supply houses. On fixtures, tile, specialty wire and anything a store does not stock, trade pricing is usually lower than retail; on commodity items the difference is small. The larger savings are avoiding rework, buying the right quantity once, and a permit and inspection included in the price.
Costs that DIY budgets often omit
- Tool and equipment rental
- Extra material from mistakes and returns
- Rework after a failed inspection
- Water or fire damage from an improper repair
- Your own time, often several weekends
Work that requires a licensed professional
In NYC, electrical work must be done by a licensed electrician (opens an external site), and plumbing and gas work by a licensed plumber (opens an external site). Unpermitted work (opens an external site) can cause violations, insurance problems and delays when you sell or refinance.
Where DIY makes sense
Painting, cleanup and finish work that involves no electrical or plumbing connections are reasonable DIY tasks. Many owners save by handling preparation and painting themselves and hiring licensed trades for the rest.
Frequently asked questions
Do contractors pass on trade prices?
Pricing methods vary between contractors. Request an estimate with materials itemized so they can be compared with retail prices.
Can I buy my own materials?
Yes. Owner-supplied fixtures and appliances are common, and the estimate then covers labor only.
Sources
3 sources
- Electrical Permit (opens an external site)NYC Department of Buildings
- Plumbing Permits (opens an external site)NYC Department of Buildings
- Do I Need a Permit? (opens an external site)NYC Department of Buildings
This guide reflects our experience and our interpretation of the rules as of the date it was published or last updated. Regulations, codes, incentives and the way agencies enforce them change often, and our interpretation may be incomplete or wrong. It is general information, not legal, engineering, tax or financial advice. Consult the relevant agency and a licensed professional before you plan, purchase or begin any work. Reading this guide does not make you our client and does not create any contractor, consulting or advisory relationship. Outstanding Construction Inc is not liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on this content, and is responsible only for work performed under a written contract signed with us.