Practical tips

10 most common household repairs and how to handle them

Published 17. 6. 2026 · Manzel Praha

Not every fault in an apartment requires calling a tradesman immediately. You can handle many minor issues yourself with a bit of patience and basic tools: a screwdriver, pliers and a set of wall plugs, while for others it pays to call a handyman straight away so that a small issue does not become a bigger problem. Here is an overview of the ten most common home repairs and guidance on which category each belongs to.

1. Dripping tap or mixer. Often, replacing the seal or cartridge helps. If you have basic tools and know how to dismantle a mixer tap, you can do it yourself. If dripping continues after replacing the seal or if a leak appears in the water supply line, it is time to call a handyman.
2. Blocked siphon or drain. A minor blockage in a washbasin or sink is often resolved by unscrewing the trap and cleaning it, simply prepare a bucket for the water that remains in the trap. If the water does not drain even after cleaning the trap, or if the problem recurs, there may be a blockage further down the pipe and it is worth calling for help.
3. Squeaking or ill-fitting doors. Lubricating hinges and tightening loose screws is something almost anyone can do in a few minutes. If the doors also scrape against the frame or are warped, the hinges need sanding or adjustment, that's a job for a handyman.
4. Loose handle or lock. Tightening a screw on the handle takes just a minute with the right screwdriver. However, if the handle remains loose or the lock sticks even after lubrication, the cylinder or mechanism is usually worn out and it is better to have it replaced.
5. Non-functioning light fixture or bulb. Replacing a light bulb is a basic household task. However, if the light still does not work after replacing the bulb, or if you are tripping circuit breakers, this involves electrical installation and should be handled by a handyman or an electrician.
6. Tripped circuit breaker or socket. You can reattach a loose frame or cover yourself in just a few minutes. However, if the switch or socket is sparking, heating up, or losing contact, this is not a cosmetic defect and requires professional replacement.
7. Loose or cracked tiles. A single loose tile can be re-adhered yourself if you have the appropriate adhesive and grout. For larger areas or cracks caused by substrate movement, it is better to leave the repair to a handyman to ensure longevity.
8. A window that does not seal properly. You can replace blown-out or hardened seals yourself if you find the correct profile type. If the window still leaks after replacing the seal or does not close properly, it may require adjustment of the hardware, which is quicker to leave to a handyman.
9. Non-functional blinds or roller shutters. A tangled pull chain or cord can often be untangled by yourself; simply work carefully without pulling on one end. However, if the mechanism is jammed, the slats do not extend evenly, or the wall bracket has come loose, it is advisable to have the blind adjusted or re-secured.
10. Assembly and installation of furniture. Most people can assemble small pieces of furniture following the instructions themselves. For larger items, wall mounting (shelves, televisions, mirrors) or when precise marking of load-bearing points is required, it pays to call a handyman. You save time and, above all, ensure that it will hold securely.

The basic principle is simple: most people can handle minor maintenance and replace worn parts themselves. However, if the problem recurs, involves electricity or water on a larger scale, or requires precision and proper tools, it pays to call a handyman, whether for several repairs at once or for a single job you cannot manage yourself.

Practical advice to conclude: if you find several items from this list at home, there is no need to call for each minor issue separately. Write them down and arrange a single appointment: the handyman will resolve them sequentially during one visit, which is more cost-effective and time-efficient than repeated separate call-outs.