Hello everyone, I am Renova.

If you are reading this article, you are probably thinking, “I want to renovate my house, but honestly, how much can I do by myself? I am sure that the person reading this article is someone who wants to start renovating, but honestly wonders how far he or she can go.

When proceeding with self-renovation, it is very important to understand the distinction between legally required work and work that is better left to professionals. This article makes these distinctions clearly and explains each in detail.

Legally essential work

These tasks are prohibited by law if you are not qualified.

Be sure to be careful as working without qualifications will pose risks such as penalties and suspension of use of the building.

It might be a good idea to get a qualification if necessary.

It seems that many landlord DIYers have acquired a Class 2 Electrician.

Structural reinforcement and earthquake-resistant construction

• Contents: Reinforcement design and construction work to ensure earthquake resistance of the building.

• Required qualifications: Architect (1st or 2nd grade).

• reason: Earthquake resistance must be met according to the Building Standards Act, and construction without qualifications is not permitted.In particular, a permit application form was not required for the two-story wooden building until 2024, but applications will be required for large-scale renovations from 2025.In most cases, the application form will need to be checked by an architect.

If you would like to learn about other related laws, please read this articleThis articlePlease also take a look.

Electrical work

• Contents: Re-draw wiring, install distribution boards, install lighting fixtures and outlets.

• Required qualifications: Electrician (Class 1 or Class 2).

• reason: It is illegal for unqualified personnel to work under the Electrician Act.Additionally, specialist skills are required to prevent fires and electric shock accidents.

Water supply and drainage equipment construction

• Contents: Connecting water pipes, installing drain pipes, and installing equipment.

• Required qualifications: A plumbing construction management technician or a contractor with a water supply license.

• reason: Due to the Water and Building Standards Act, plumbing requires specialized skills and permission.

Gas construction

• Contents: Installation of gas pipes and installation of gas equipment.

• Required qualifications: Liquefied petroleum and gas equipment operator or gas construction company.

• reason: Because of the high risk, appropriate technology based on the Liquefied Petroleum and Gas Act is required.

Demolition work with asbestos removal

• Contents: Removal and special demolition of building materials containing asbestos.

• Required qualifications: Registration contractor for demolition and construction business.

• reason: Based on the Occupational Safety and Health Act and the Air Pollution Control Act, appropriate disposal by specialists is mandatory.

Inspection and permit application

• Contents: Application for building approval, submission of earthquake-resistant renovation plans, and taking a complete inspection.

• Required qualifications: An architect or an agency for building approval applications.

• reason: Residence is not permitted unless it proves that it complies with the Building Standards Act by law.

When using highly specialized tools

I think there are many cases where it is rarely necessary, but I'll write it down anyway.When using some tools, in Japan you will need to take qualifications and training courses!

If you are thinking of using something that is highly powerful, please proceed with your research in advance.

• Contents:

When working using special tools or heavy machinery, such as forklifts, chainsaws, steel cutting machines, diamond cutters, and high altitude work vehicles.

• Required qualifications: The following qualifications are required depending on the work and the equipment used:
  • forklift: Certificate of completion of forklift driving skills course.
  • Chainsaw: Safety and health education or special education certificate for those who handle brush cutters (when cutting wood).
  • Steel cutting and welding work: Qualified for gas welding technicians and qualification for high-pressure gas handling.
  • Highway Work Vehicle: Certificate of completion of high-altitude work vehicle driving skills course.
  • Crane work: A mobile crane driver's license or certificate of completion of the lifting skills course.
• reason: Due to the Occupational Safety and Health Act and various regulations, special tools and heavy machinery must be operated by a qualified person with appropriate training.This ensures safety of the work and minimizes the risk of accidents.

In particular, equipment such as forklifts and chainsaws can lead to serious accidents if handled incorrectly, so users must have the appropriate skills and knowledge.Furthermore, in renovation and demolition operations, these tools are frequently used to carry out efficient work, so certified personnel play an important role on the site.

It's highly specialized, so it's better to leave it to you

Although it is not required by law, it is a task that should be left to experts in terms of work accuracy and safety.

Revising the structural design

• Contents: A review of the structural design to match the new floor plan from the skeleton state.

• reason: In many cases, precise calculations by an architect are required, and if you do it yourself there is a high risk of oversight or insufficient strength.

Preventing leaks

• Contents: Waterproofing installation of roofs and exterior walls.

• reason: Professional skills are required to prevent the deterioration of the entire building from leaking.

Installation of air conditioning and ventilation equipment

• Contents: Installation and adjustment of air conditioners and ventilation systems.

• reason: It requires accurate installation of pipes and ducts, making it difficult for amateurs to ensure efficiency and safety.

Highway work

• Contents: Roofing work and exterior wall painting work with scaffolding.

• reason: It is difficult to ensure safety when working at high altitudes, so it is safer to hire a specialist.

Interior finishing

• Contents: Flooring and tile installation that requires special techniques.

• reason: As it affects the aesthetics, if you are concerned about the quality of the finish, it is safe to leave it to an expert.

Summary

When self-renovating from skeletons, it is important to clearly separate tasks that are mandatory by law and tasks that require high expertise.It is a good idea to ask a qualified person for legally essential tasks, and choose to do the rest yourself, or leave it to an expert based on your budget and time.

Self-renovation is a challenging project, but in order to create a safe and secure home, don't forget to hire professional help in the necessary areas.

Conclusion

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Well, then!