Home maintenance doesn’t offer the same appeal as channeling your inner HGTV host, but it’s an unavoidable part of homeownership. Not to mention, certain repairs are time-sensitive—like a leaking pipe that can lead to costly water damage if ignored.
But there are some tasks best left to professionals. Here are 4 of the most expensive home repairs you may encounter as a new homeowner: 1. Roof repair.
- Roof Repairs
The roof is arguably the most important part of any home. It protects the rest of your house from rot, water damage, and even natural disasters like fires.
The cost of your home’s roof repairs depends on how much damage there is and whether you need to replace the whole roof or just a section of it. Surface repairs like replacing lost shingles and fixing spot leaks are relatively inexpensive. However, if you have to replace your roof because it has become too damaged, it can be very expensive.
Taking preventative measures like regularly checking on the condition of your roof and acting promptly when you see signs of trouble can save you from having to pay for expensive repair bills in the future. It can also help you maintain the value of your home and sell it at a good price should you decide to move. Keeping your roof in good shape can also prevent energy waste and increase its lifespan.
- Water Heater Repairs
Homeownership is expensive, and there are some repairs that come with it that you can’t predict. It can be frustrating to find yourself in an unplanned repair situation when something breaks down or a leak happens, and it’s even worse when you haven’t budgeted for these expenses. Things like air in water lines or water issues need to be handled by a professional.
Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to avoid costly home repairs. For example, it’s a good idea to regularly check on the roof, water heater, and HVAC system to catch problems early on before they get out of hand. This can help you save money in the long run.
Similarly, it’s important to drain 2-3 gallons of water from your water heater on a regular basis so that it doesn’t become clogged with sediment and cause rust and damage. It’s also a good idea to have an anode rod replaced periodically so that it prevents corrosion and extends the life of your unit. A replacement anode rod isn’t too expensive at around $50, so this is a repair that can be easily budgeted for.
- Electrical Repairs
Whether your electrical wiring is outdated or damaged, it’s important to have it repaired by a professional as soon as possible. Otherwise, you may end up with a
costly home repair bill that’s significantly more than you’re expecting. Some of the most common electrical repairs include rewiring, replacing fuses and circuit breakers, and fixing lighting fixtures and bulbs.
Even something as simple as a crooked outlet plate can require an electrician to replace the old one and wire up a new fixture. That’s because outlets can be a fire hazard if they become cracked, hot to the touch, ungrounded, or otherwise damaged.
Another expensive electrical repair involves replacing your home’s circuit breaker panels. These are responsible for distributing electricity throughout your house and also protect it from overloads. They can cost between $1,800 and $30,000 for a typical home depending on the size of your home and how complex its electrical system is. You’ll also need to consider whether your circuit breaker panel needs to be upgraded for GFCI protection.
- Plumbing Repairs
When it comes to expensive home repairs, plumbing is a top contender. Homeowners face a variety of plumbing problems, including blocked drains and sewer line leaks. Some of these problems can be handled with low-cost preventative measures, while others require immediate attention.
The first problem that most homeowners encounter is a clogged pipe. Clogged drains can cause overflowing toilets, water pools, and even water damage. Small clogs can usually be cleared with a plunger, while larger ones may need to be removed with an electric plumber’s snake.
Another common plumbing repair is the replacement of sewer lines. This is a costly issue because it requires the plumber to dig up the old line and install a new one. To reduce the cost of this repair, homeowners can take steps to prevent sewer line issues, such as sloping soil away from the home or positioning drain spouts properly.