Every homeowner deals with wear and tear. A loose doorknob, a dripping faucet, or a small crack in the wall might seem harmless at first. But these small issues don’t stay small for long. If ignored, they can lead to expensive repairs—or worse, damage to your property.
That’s why it’s important to know how to manage small house repairs. Some fixes are easy enough to handle on your own. Others need a trained hand. The key is knowing when to DIY and when to call a professional.
In this guide, you’ll learn which repairs are most common, how much they typically cost, and how to decide whether it’s worth tackling them yourself or hiring help.
What Are the Most Common Home Repairs?
Small house repairs usually involve issues that happen with daily use or natural aging of the home. These repairs don’t require major renovation—but they do need attention. The most frequent issues include:
Dripping faucets and leaky pipes
These waste water and can lead to mold if ignored. Worn-out washers or loose fittings are often to blame. According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, fixing leaky faucets can save hundreds of litres of water each year.
Loose cabinet doors or sagging drawers
Over time, hinges and drawer slides loosen. A simple screwdriver can fix most of these.
Wall damage like nail holes, dents, or scratches
Homes with kids or pets tend to have a lot of these. It’s usually just a quick spackle-and-paint job.
Damaged drywall
Whether from furniture impact, water leaks, or poor installation, drywall damage is one of the top interior issues.
Squeaky door hinges or floorboards
Common in older homes, these can often be quieted with oil or tightening screws.
Loose or cracked tiles
Especially in bathrooms and kitchens, tiles take a beating. A single broken tile can let water seep in and damage the floor underneath.
Spotting and fixing these issues early keeps your home safe, functional, and looking well cared for.
What Are the Three Types of Repairs?
Understanding the three types of home repairs helps you prioritize your to-do list and budget smarter. Here’s how repairs usually break down:
Emergency Repairs
These are urgent problems that need immediate attention—think burst pipes, gas leaks, or electrical failures. Delaying these can be dangerous or cause major damage. The Canadian Red Cross stresses the importance of being prepared for emergencies in and around the home.
Routine Repairs
These happen over time and should be handled as part of general upkeep. Examples include tightening loose handles, replacing light fixtures, or sealing a drafty window.
Preventive Repairs
These are done to stop a problem before it gets worse. Fixing a small roof leak before the next storm, or re-caulking a bathroom to prevent water damage, are great examples.
Handling preventive and routine repairs right away can save you thousands in emergency costs down the line.
How Much Do Small House Repairs Cost?
Repair costs can vary based on the type of job, the tools or parts required, and where you live. But in general, here’s what to expect:
Simple DIY repairs like patching holes or replacing hardware can cost less than $50 if you already have tools.
Mid-level jobs like drywall repair or replacing a broken tile might cost around $100–$250.
Professional help for things like plumbing leaks or electrical issues often ranges between $100 to $500.
For example, hiring someone for drywall repair in a small room might cost around $200. But if you learn how to patch screw holes in drywall and already have some paint, you could do it yourself for under $20.
Need more detail on costs? The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) offers guides and renovation planning tools to help you budget responsibly.
DIY Home Projects That Are Worth Doing
Tackling small house repairs on your own can save money and give you a sense of accomplishment. There are many diy home projects that are easy to manage, even if you’re just starting out:
Patching nail holes or small dents in walls
Just apply spackle, let it dry, sand it down, and touch up with paint.
Replacing doorknobs, cabinet handles, or light switch covers
These only require a screwdriver and a few minutes.
Fixing a loose toilet seat or leaky faucet
With basic instructions and $10–$30 in parts, most homeowners can manage this. The City of Toronto has helpful tips on fixing leaks and reducing water waste.
Caulking around sinks, tubs, and windows
This prevents water damage and improves energy efficiency.
Painting or touching up scuffed walls and trim
A quick coat of paint can make a room feel refreshed for less than $50.
These DIY repairs not only improve your home but help you better understand how it works—so you’re less likely to be overcharged by a contractor.
When to Hire a Professional
Not all small house repairs are safe or smart to do yourself. Some jobs require expertise, tools, or permits. If you get them wrong, you could cause more harm than good.
Here’s when you should definitely call a pro:
Electrical issues like flickering lights, faulty outlets, or breaker problems
Plumbing leaks inside walls or near appliances
Roof or gutter damage, especially if it involves heights or ladder work
Mold or water damage, which may need inspection and safe removal
Cracks in the foundation or signs of structural shifting
Not sure who to call? Many people ask, “What do you call a person who fixes things in a house?” The general term is handyman, but specialists like electricians or plumbers are licensed for complex repairs. You can find qualified tradespeople using Ontario Skilled Trades Portal.
Best Small House Repairs That Add Real Value
Not all repairs are just about upkeep—some upgrades can actually increase your home’s value or cut your monthly bills. These are the smart fixes that pay off.
• Seal gaps around windows and doors
Keeps warm air in during winter and cool air in during summer. That means lower heating and cooling costs all year.
• Replace broken tiles or chipped countertops
Boosts both safety and style in key areas like kitchens and bathrooms—two spaces buyers care about most.
• Repair damaged drywall and repaint
Clean, smooth walls instantly freshen up any room. A must-do if you plan to sell or rent.
• Fix leaking faucets or running toilets
Saves hundreds of gallons of water a year—and lowers your water bill without lifting a finger after it’s fixed. According to Environment Canada, a leaking toilet can waste up to 200,000 litres of water per year.
• Clean and re-caulk tubs and sinks
Blocks water from getting behind walls and gives your bathroom a clean, updated look for just a few bucks.
These fixes are quick, affordable, and offer serious bang for your buck. Do them now, and enjoy the value they bring later.
Smart Maintenance Pays Off in the Long Run
Small house repairs don’t seem like a big deal—until they are. A little leak can lead to water damage. A loose door handle can break. A small crack can grow fast.
Taking care of these things early saves you money and keeps your home safe. Whether you fix it yourself or call someone, it’s way cheaper and easier than waiting for a bigger problem.
Quick tip: If you see something wrong, fix it now. It’s always better than dealing with a big repair later.
We're Here to Help with Your Home Repairs
Tired of trying to fix things yourself? Let Complete Casa Construction handle your home repairs with care and know-how. We listen, show up on time, and get it done right.
Call (289) 929-8988 or contact us today to talk through your home repair needs and get a free quote
