MSE Forum Poll: When something breaks in your home, what's your usual first step?

twopenny

What is the first thing you do?

I post on the DIY forum - they can tell me what to do, what it is, name parts and reassure me it won't blow up 😄 blooming brilliant.

And if I can't fix it I do know what to ask for and who to contact. Excellent when you live on your own and have no one to help.

Like Bridget but I'm temporarily disabled for a few years and some trades take advantage of that. It's not nice.

Rosa_Damascena

Thinking about the stuff that has broken in my home over the past few years - its usually mugs and glasses. All are replaceable but there is no real need because I have plenty of everything anyway.

If its at home I don't hesitate to call the professionals in. That is what they are good at.

silverwhistle

My usual first step is to say "bu&&er!". Then it depends.. My bestie is very practical but I have to wait until Friday when she comes round after work if she is able to help. I have repaired a dishwasher myself after diagnosing the issue and buying a drain pump by post (my diagnosis was correct!)..

I'll have a go as long as I don't think I'll make things worse, but I've been lucky really and haven't needed professionals for broken stuff, just for refurbs.

MattMattMattUK

It depends what it is, door handle I will change, a consumer unit I am not going to even consider playing with, everything else in the middle depends.

subjecttocontract

My first reaction is to check my insurance, warranty, credit card, legal cover or any other type of cover in case I can get someone else to pay the cost of repair or replacement.

MMy second reaction is to try to put the blame on someone else.....so they are responsible for paying.

learnandshare

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/6656038/mse-forum-poll-when-something-breaks-in-your-home-what-039-s-your-usual-first-step

Depends what it is, like others have said, otherwise:

First step: check if it it's still in warranty

Second step: have look to see if it looks like an easy fix - if it does then look on youtube etc for how to do it. I've rescued many a small appliance with simple & cheap fixes

Third step: Again, depends what it it is and how much to replace.

Eco_Miser

• Do I really need it?
  If no, Ignore it
• Have I already got a replacement in stock?
  Use replacement
• Can I fix it myself / have a mate who can fix it?
  Fix it
• Is a replacement cheaper than repair?
  Buy replacement
• If I get this far down the list, I'll hire a professional to fix it