Home Repair Help

Something wrong in the house? HouseFixHer helps you understand what to notice, what to write down, and what to ask before calling someone.

You do not need the perfect words Start with what you see, hear, smell, or feel. A clear description can help you ask better questions and avoid feeling rushed.

Important safety note If there is flooding, sparks, smoke, gas smell, carbon monoxide concern, major structural damage, electrical danger, fire risk, or an urgent safety issue, contact emergency services or a qualified professional right away.

Leaks & Plumbing

Water leaks or plumbing problems

Water issues can cause damage quickly, so it helps to track where the water is coming from and whether it is getting worse.

Where do you see water or moisture?
Does it happen all the time or only when using a sink, tub, toilet, washer, or appliance?
Is the area soft, stained, swollen, dripping, or smelling musty?
Can the water supply be shut off safely?
Ask whether the repair includes cleanup and damage assessment.

Electrical

Electrical concerns

Electrical issues should be treated carefully. Some jobs require a licensed electrician and may need permits or inspections.

Are lights flickering, breakers tripping, outlets warm, or switches sparking?
Does the problem happen in one room or the whole house?
Is there any burning smell, buzzing, or visible damage?
Ask whether a licensed electrician is required.
Ask whether permits or inspections are needed.

Heat & Cooling

Heating or cooling problems

Heating and cooling issues can involve thermostats, filters, fuel, power, vents, equipment age, or professional servicing.

Is the system not turning on, making noise, blowing weak air, or not reaching temperature?
When was the filter last changed?
Are some rooms affected more than others?
Ask what testing was done before recommending parts.
Ask whether repair or replacement makes more sense based on age and condition.

Roof & Exterior

Roof, gutter, or exterior trouble

Roof and exterior problems often show up as stains, leaks, missing shingles, gutter overflow, drafts, or damage after storms.

When did you first notice the issue?
Does it happen during rain, snow, wind, or melting ice?
Can you see missing shingles, damaged flashing, clogged gutters, or siding damage?
Ask for photos of what the contractor sees.
Ask what is urgent and what can be planned later.

Moisture & Damage

Moisture, mold, stains, or damage

Stains, soft spots, musty smells, and swelling can be clues that moisture is present or has been present before.

Is the area wet now or only stained?
Is there a musty smell?
Is the stain growing or staying the same?
What room or fixture is above or behind the area?
Ask whether the source of moisture has been found before repairing the surface.

Doors & Windows

Doors, windows, drafts, or sticking

Doors and windows can have issues from weather, age, installation, moisture, shifting, hardware, or seal problems.

Is there a draft, leak, crack, fogging, sticking, or lock problem?
Does it happen during certain weather?
Is the frame damaged or soft?
Ask whether repair, weatherstripping, adjustment, or replacement is recommended.
Ask what warranty comes with replacement parts or windows.

What to do before calling someone

Take clear photos from close up and farther away.
Write down when the issue started.
Note whether it is getting worse.
Write down anything that seems connected, such as rain, appliance use, temperature, or noise.
Ask for a written quote before approving work.

Your calm next step Describe the problem on the HouseFixHer homepage, then use the questions to prepare before calling a contractor, plumber, electrician, roofer, or other professional.

Use the Free Repair Helper Before You Hire Someone

Questions or feedback?

Send us a note at support@housefixher.com.