Many young people do not have the skills required to maintain their homes without professional assistance, according to new research, a situation which electrical courses could help to remedy.

A study by Halifax Home Insurance showed that 50 per cent of under-35s cannot wire a plug and senior claims manager at the firm Martyn Foulds suggested this may mean they encounter problems in the future.

The investigation also found that it is costing people a significant amount of money to hire professionals who have taken electrical courses and other training to come in and deal with DIY issues.

Mr Foulds added: "This survey strongly suggests that younger people feel they don't have the experience or knowledge necessary to tackle even the most basic of home maintenance and DIY tasks."

Recently, Halifax Home Insurance urged homeowners to watch out for subsidence during the summer months, particularly if they live in an area which has enjoyed dry conditions.

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