There’s a lot to get done when you’re counting down the days to retirement, and although taking care of your home seems like something you can put off, it should still be a top priority. “As you approach retirement, it’s vital to tackle certain home repairs proactively—not just for comfort, but to avoid significant financial surprises when you’re on a fixed income,” insists Danny Reddick, President of Reddick & Sons in Manassas, Virginia. If you don’t want to outsource the work, it’s also worth pointing out that your physical limitations are only going to increase as you get older. Not sure where to start? These are the four home repairs experts say you should cross off your list before officially retiring.
Old Mechanical Systems
Everyone dreads making a call to their plumber or electrician because you never know how much you’re going to end up spending. Still, Reddick insists that it’s almost always cheaper to play offense versus defense. “Some of the most expensive emergency repairs a homeowner can face involve mechanical systems, and replacing them on your own timeline is ultimately more cost-effective,” he insists.
Megan Doser, CEO of Dr. Fix-it Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric in Denver City, Texas, emphasizes that HVAC issues can be especially spendy. “If your HVAC system is around 12–15 years old and you don’t replace it now, you can expect a sudden $6,000–$12,000 replacement bill during your retirement,” she explains. “Plus, it usually happens at the worst possible moment—for instance, during a heatwave or harsh winter that can affect the shaky health of senior people.”
Structural and Exterior Issues
Damaged siding, foundation cracks, worn-out caulking, and clogged or sagging gutters aren’t problems you want to put off for the future. Reddick says that water is a home’s biggest enemy—“even minor moisture issues can cause costly problems, such as mold, rot, or foundation damage if left unchecked.” At that point, not only would you have to pay for the original repairs, but you’d also have to pay for the subsequent repairs courtesy of moisture damage.
Anything Physically Unsafe
While not necessarily a repair, Reddick and Doser agree that it’s worth evaluating your home for any opportunities to improve safety before retirement—especially if you already need to make some updates. “This could include upgrading lighting, replacing slippery flooring, or swapping out doorknobs for lever handles,” Reddick explains. “These minor improvements can significantly reduce the risk of injuries while allowing you to stay in your home longer without the need for costly renovations later.”
Doser emphasizes the importance of making sure your bathroom is up to snuff, as “a bathroom for middle-aged adults and for seniors is a completely different thing.” Features like grab bars, walk-in showers, slip-resistant flooring, and lower sinks and toilets significantly improve the quality of life, decreasing the risk and stress as a result.
Old Roofs
According to Doser, an aged roof can cause problems such as leaks, attic mold, damaged insulation, and even pests—resulting in more expenses and stress. While it may be about time to replace yours, that’s not the only solution.
“While you’re still in shape and comfortable climbing ladders and carrying heavy tools, you can spot early issues, handle small preventative repairs, and properly check work done by professionals,” she explains.