Do it yourself or call a tradesperson? In Luxembourg, where hourly rates range from €60 to €100/hour, the temptation to DIY is strong. But not all jobs are equal.
The Basic Principle
Before deciding, ask yourself three questions:
- Do I have the skills?
- Is there a regulatory or safety risk?
- Is the financial gain real?
What You Can Do Yourself
Finishing and Decorating Work
Interior painting is the classic DIY job. Expect to spend €2 to €4/m² on materials versus €15 to €25/m² with a painter. On 80m² of walls, the saving can reach €1,000 to €1,700.
Small Gardening Jobs
Mowing, trimming, planting, laying edging or patio slabs.
Assembly and Fitting
IKEA kitchens, furniture, shelving, small interior alterations.
What Must Be Done by a Professional
Electrics
In Luxembourg, all work on the consumer unit and new circuits must be carried out by a registered electrician. Non-compliance can invalidate your insurance.
Gas and Heating
Installing a boiler or heat pump requires a certified professional. This is also mandatory for Klimabonus grants.
Roofing
Serious risk of working at height. A poor repair can cause significant damage.
Building Structure
Removing a load-bearing wall or creating an opening: the exclusive domain of the mason and architect.
Financial Comparison
| Job | DIY Cost | Professional Cost | Saving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Painting (80m² of walls) | €200 to €400 | €1,200 to €2,000 | €800 to €1,600 |
| Tiling 20m² | €300 to €500 | €1,200 to €2,000 | €700 to €1,500 |
| Laminate flooring 30m² | €300 to €600 | €900 to €1,500 | €600 to €1,000 |
| Electrical work | Prohibited | €80 to €100/hour | Don’t attempt |
| Boiler replacement | Prohibited | €1,500 to €4,000 | Don’t attempt |
The Hidden Cost of DIY
- Tools: €500 to €2,000 for a complete project
- Your time: value it at your hourly rate
- Mistakes: corrections often cost more
- Guarantee: a tradesperson has 10-year liability insurance
The Hybrid Solution
For most projects:
- Entrust technical work to professionals
- Contribute to finishing work if you have time
- Prepare the site yourself (simple demolition, clearance)
This approach can reduce the bill by 15 to 30%.
Find Reliable Tradespeople on tack.lu
For professional work, tack.lu connects you with verified tradespeople in Luxembourg.
FAQ
Is wall tiling accessible as a DIY project?
Yes, it’s accessible with the right tools. The main difficulty is cutting the tiles.
Can you receive Klimabonus grants for DIY work?
No. Klimabonus grants are conditional on work being carried out by an approved professional company.
What insurance covers damage caused by DIY work?
Your home insurance may cover certain accidental damage, but may refuse if the installation doesn’t comply with regulations.
