Living in Exeter means dealing with the unique challenges of Devon's coastal climate. From damp issues to winter storms, your home needs regular attention. As a local handyman with 18+ years experience in Exeter, I've seen it all. Here are the 10 most common repairs I'm called out for - and what you need to know about each one.

1. Dripping Taps & Leaky Fixtures

Why it matters in Exeter: Hard water in many Exeter areas causes limescale buildup, leading to worn washers and seals faster than in soft water areas.

The problem: That annoying drip-drip-drip isn't just irritating - a dripping tap can waste 15 litres of water per day. That's 5,500 litres per year!

DIY or call a pro? If it's a simple washer replacement on a standard tap, you can DIY. But if you have mixer taps, thermostatic showers, or the leak is coming from the pipe itself, call us. We can fix most tap issues in under 30 minutes.

Cost to fix: £45-£75 for standard tap repairs

2. Squeaky & Sticking Doors

Why it matters in Exeter: Exeter's damp climate causes wooden doors to swell and contract with the seasons, leading to sticking and squeaking.

The problem: Besides being annoying, sticking doors can damage frames and handles. In winter, external doors that stick can let in drafts.

The fix: Often it's just hinges needing lubrication or adjustment. Sometimes doors need planing down (especially after painting). We carry the right tools to fix this properly without damaging your door or frame.

Cost to fix: £45-£90 depending on complexity

3. Guttering & Downpipe Issues

Why it matters in Exeter: Exeter gets around 850mm of rainfall annually. Blocked gutters can cause serious damp problems, especially in older properties around St David's and Newtown.

The problem: Leaves, moss, and debris block gutters. Water overflows, runs down walls, and causes damp penetration. I see this constantly in autumn/winter.

Prevention: Get gutters cleared twice yearly (spring and autumn). Check downpipes aren't blocked after storms.

Cost to fix: £60-£120 for clearing and minor repairs

4. Loose or Broken Tiles

Why it matters in Exeter: Strong winds from the coast can lift loose tiles. Once one goes, water gets in and damages the roof structure.

The problem: Victorian and Edwardian properties (common in Exeter) often have original tiles that are becoming brittle. Winter frosts can crack them.

Act fast: One loose tile becomes ten loose tiles very quickly in our weather. We can source matching tiles for most Exeter properties.

Cost to fix: £80-£150 for minor tile repairs

5. Damp & Mould (Particularly in Bathrooms)

Why it matters in Exeter: Devon's coastal humidity plus poor ventilation = mould heaven. I see this in nearly every older property I visit.

The problem: Mould isn't just unsightly - it's a health hazard, especially for children and elderly residents.

Common causes:

• Broken or inadequate extractor fans
• Damaged bathroom sealant
• Poor ventilation
• Leaking pipes behind walls

The fix: Replace sealant, install proper extraction, fix leaks. Sometimes needs a multi-trade approach.

Cost to fix: £60-£200 depending on extent

6. Broken Fence Panels

Why it matters in Exeter: Exeter gets its fair share of Atlantic storms. One good gale and fence panels can go flying.

The problem: Broken fences affect security, privacy, and property value. In residential areas like Pinhoe and Whipton, good fences make good neighbours.

Quick fix: We keep standard 6ft fence panels on the van. Most fence repairs done same day.

Cost to fix: £80-£150 per panel including labour

7. Silicone & Sealant Degradation

Why it matters in Exeter: The damp climate breaks down bathroom and kitchen sealant faster than in drier areas.

The problem: Old, cracked sealant lets water behind tiles, under worktops, and into walls. This causes expensive damp damage.

How often to replace: Bathroom sealant should be replaced every 2-3 years in Exeter properties. Kitchen splashbacks every 3-5 years.

DIY trap: Most DIY sealant jobs look terrible because it's harder than it looks! Professional finish makes all the difference.

Cost to fix: £60-£120 for bathroom resealing

8. Window & Door Lock Repairs

Why it matters in Exeter: Security and insurance requirements. Many Exeter burglaries happen through poorly secured windows and doors.

The problem: UPVC window mechanisms wear out, keys break in locks, wooden window catches fail. These need addressing immediately for security.

Insurance note: Some insurers require specific lock types. We know the local requirements.

Cost to fix: £50-£140 depending on lock type

9. Flat-Pack Furniture Assembly

Why Exeter residents call us: Because 3 hours wrestling with IKEA instructions on a Sunday isn't fun!

The problem: Most flat-pack comes with minimal instructions. Getting it wrong means wobbly wardrobes and wonky shelves.

Our advantage: We've built hundreds. A 3-hour DIY job takes us 45 minutes, done properly with professional tools.

Popular items: IKEA PAX wardrobes, Argos beds, Wayfair TV units

Cost: £60-£150 depending on item complexity

10. TV Wall Mounting

Why Exeter residents call us: Modern TVs are expensive and heavy. One wrong drill hole and you've got a cracked screen or damaged wall.

The problem: Exeter homes vary hugely - solid Devon stone walls, plasterboard stud walls, brick, and everything in between. Each needs different fixings.

Hidden cost of DIY: Most people don't have the right drill bits, wall finders, or brackets. By the time you buy everything, it's cheaper to call us.

Included: Full cable concealment, testing, and perfect positioning

Cost: £80-£150 depending on TV size and wall type

When to DIY vs Call a Professional

Safe to DIY:

• Changing light bulbs and batteries
• Basic picture hanging (lightweight items)
• Tightening loose screws
• Oiling squeaky hinges

Call a Professional:

• Anything electrical beyond changing bulbs
• Anything involving roof access
• Gas appliances (legally must be Gas Safe)
• Structural issues
• Anything where you're not confident

Exeter-Specific Maintenance Tips

For Victorian/Edwardian Properties (common in Newtown, St Leonards):

• Check for damp penetration twice yearly
• Keep chimneys capped and ventilated
• Maintain original sash windows (they're better than you think!)

For Modern Properties (Digby, Monkerton estates):

• UPVC windows need mechanism lubrication annually
• Flat roofs need inspecting after winter
• Cavity wall ventilation must stay clear

For Properties Near the River Exe or Quay:

• Extra ventilation essential due to higher humidity
• Check for salt corrosion on metal fixings
• Dehumidifiers recommended in winter

Seasonal Maintenance Calendar for Exeter Homes

Spring (March-May):

• Clear gutters after winter
• Check fences after winter storms
• Test outdoor taps
• Check roof for loose/damaged tiles

Summer (June-August):

• Paint external woodwork
• Check and repair garden structures
• Service and repair decking

Autumn (September-November):

• Clear gutters before winter
• Check window and door seals
• Service heating systems
• Clear drains and gullies

Winter (December-February):

• Check loft insulation
• Lag external pipes
• Check for drafts and cold spots

Why Choose a Local Exeter Handyman?

We know Exeter properties. We know which streets flood in heavy rain, which areas have hard water problems, and which estates were built with what materials. This local knowledge saves you money because we diagnose problems faster and fix them right first time.

Plus, we're here for the long haul. No disappearing after one job. Many of our customers have been with us for years, calling us for everything from emergency leaks to annual maintenance.

Get Your Free Quote

Got a job from this list? Or something else that needs fixing? Call us on 07766 501664 for a free, no-obligation quote. Most quotes given over the phone, same-day service available for emergencies.

Serving all Exeter areas including City Centre, Heavitree, Pinhoe, St Thomas, Whipton, Alphington, Topsham, Exminster, and surrounding villages.