DIY projects leave millions injured and out of pocket

4 min read
  • 3.4 million people have injured themselves doing DIY
  • 3.3 million admit that their DIY efforts damaged their property or worsened existing problems 
  • Botched DIY jobs have set Brits back £1.8 billion - £538 per fix on average
  • Four in five UK adults have done DIY work on their current home

 

Over 3.4 million (eight per cent)1 UK adults have sustained injuries while undertaking DIY projects at home, according to new research by Direct Line business insurance, and a similar number (3.3 million or eight per cent) admit that their DIY efforts actually damaged their property or worsened existing problems. 

Rectifying damage from botched DIY jobs has cost Brits a staggering £1.8 billion, with an average spend of £538.60 per repair, highlighting the potential risks of undertaking sometimes complex or unfamiliar tasks without professional support.

The UK is a nation of DIY enthusiasts, with four in five (80 per cent) people having carried out home improvement work on their current property. However, this hands-on approach often has unintended consequences. 

Among those injured, over a third (36 per cent) sought medical attention, with more than a quarter (27 per cent) visiting their GP or speaking to a doctor, and around one in six (16 per cent) going to A&E as a result of their DIY efforts. The consequences extended beyond health impacts, a quarter (24 per cent) were forced to take time off work, and an eighth (12 per cent) report ongoing difficulties related to their injuries.

Over a third (35 per cent) also admit to starting a DIY project but ultimately calling in a professional to complete the work, highlighting the disconnect between confidence and capability.

Mark Summerville, SME Product Manager at Direct Line business insurance, commented: “DIY can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to improve your home, but this research highlights the very real risks that come with it. Recognising your limits and involving professionals when needed helps prevent injuries and reduces the chances of mistakes that can be costly to rectify or difficult to undo.”

-ENDS-

Notes to editors:

  1. The research was conducted by Opinium, amongst a sample of 2,000 UK adults between 15th April to 17th April 2025. Opinium abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society which is based on the ESOMAR principles and are members of The British Polling Council. 

For further information, please contact: 

Direct Line Group: 

Unni Henry  

PR Manager 

Email: unni.henry@directlinegroup.co.uk  

 

About Direct Line business insurance

Launched in 2007 Direct Line business insurance now has over half a million customer policies, providing a flexible range of insurance products for the landlord, van and small business sectors.

Direct Line business insurance policies are underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

Direct Line business insurance and U K Insurance limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.

Customers can find out more about Direct Line business insurance products or get a quote by calling 0345 301 4827 or visiting https://www.directlineforbusiness.co.uk