In the world of do-it-yourself projects, landlords sometimes take the lead, leaving behind a trail of questionable renovations.
These attempts often lead to amusing and sometimes shocking results, known as ‘Landlord Specials.’
Below, we explore 10 of these eyebrow-raising DIY blunders that highlight why DIY is not for everyone.
1. Painting Over Outlets
You walk into a newly painted room expecting a fresh look, but instead, you find that even the electrical outlets have received a sloppy coat of paint.
The paint seeps into the crevices, and you can’t help but wonder if the electricity is still safe. It’s a baffling sight that defies logic.
The so-called ‘professional’ touch leaves you questioning other hidden ‘gems’ in the house. A quick solution? Use outlet covers before painting next time, or better yet, hire a professional.
Safety should never be compromised by a hastily completed DIY job.
2. Installing Flooring On Top of Flooring
When you discover layers upon layers of flooring, it feels like you’ve unearthed an archaeological site.
Each layer tells its own story, but none fit into the present decor. The added height can cause tripping hazards and make doors hard to close.
Removing these layers requires time and effort, not to mention an understanding of what lies beneath.
Instead of stacking floors, why not start fresh? Assess the base floor and choose a single, cohesive style for the entire space. It promises a better look and a safer environment.
3. Painting Over Bugs
Imagine stumbling upon a beautifully painted wall, only to notice the eerie outlines of bugs immortalized in paint. This bizarre oversight turns your wall into an unintended art piece that’s anything but beautiful.
The horror of realizing what’s under that paint sends shivers down your spine. The key to avoiding this?
A thorough inspection and proper cleaning before painting. Taking the time to prep ensures a flawless finish, free from creepy crawlers and cringe-worthy mistakes.
No one wants a bug graveyard as their home’s feature wall.
4. Basically, Painting Over Anything
In some ‘Landlord Specials,’ nothing is safe from a paintbrush—not even the furniture or plants. The room appears as if a paint bomb exploded, splattering color indiscriminately over every surface.
This chaotic lack of preparation speaks volumes about the DIYer’s haste. A simple solution? Cover everything or remove items from the room before painting.
This ensures a tidy job and an unblemished living space. Remember, a few extra moments in preparation save a lot of cleanup time and potential tenant complaints later.
5. Not Cleaning Properly
An unclean space is a common ‘special’ that landlords sometimes leave behind. Dusty surfaces, greasy countertops, and cobwebs in corners suggest a lack of attention to detail.
Cleaning is the simplest yet most often ignored task. It’s essential for hygiene and aesthetic appeal. Taking the time to clean can transform a dingy space into a welcoming one.
Use proper cleaning agents and tools to tackle stubborn grime. A clean home is an attractive home, and it’s the least a tenant deserves when moving in.
6. Drawers That Can’t Open
Imagine the frustration of having beautiful kitchen cabinetry only to find out the drawers won’t open fully.
Poor planning and installation lead to drawers that bump into walls or each other, rendering them useless.
This design oversight could easily be avoided with proper measurements and planning. Emphasizing functionality over aesthetics ensures practicality in everyday use.
Consider consulting with a design professional to avoid such headaches. After all, what good is a drawer if you can’t access what’s inside?
7. Popcorn Ceilings
Popcorn ceilings are the hallmark of past interior design trends that have lost their appeal. Their textured appearance collects dust and cobwebs, and over time, bits start falling off.
Removing popcorn ceilings is a messy and labor-intensive process. However, it’s a worthwhile investment to modernize a space.
Smooth ceilings enhance lighting and provide a cleaner, more contemporary look. If you’re not up for the task, hiring a professional ensures a smooth finish without the hassle.
8. Janky Wiring
Electrical wiring is not a DIY area for the faint-hearted. Janky, exposed wires are a serious safety hazard that should never be overlooked or underestimated.
It screams negligence and poses risks to everyone at home.
Proper electrical work requires expertise and adherence to safety codes. If you encounter janky wiring, call a licensed electrician immediately.
They can assess and repair the wiring, ensuring the safety and functionality of your electrical systems. Remember, electricity is best left to professionals.
9. Holes Covered with Anything But Putty
Covering holes with anything but the right material is a humorous yet common landlord trick. From tape to paper, quick fixes become glaring eyesores that fail to solve the problem.
Proper patching with putty or wall filler is the only way to ensure a smooth surface. It requires minimal effort and yields a far more satisfactory result.
For a professional finish, consider sanding and repainting the patched area. Such attention to detail not only improves aesthetics but also the overall integrity of the wall.
10. Mystery Item: The Stuck Window
Imagine a sweltering summer day, and you try to open a window only to find it painted shut. This ‘special’ is more common than you’d think and can lead to ventilation issues and safety hazards.
To fix this, carefully cut through the paint where the window meets the frame using a utility knife. Gently prying the window open might be needed.
Ensuring windows can open freely is essential for proper ventilation and safety in emergencies. Assessing and fixing windows before tenants move in ensures comfort and peace of mind.