Experts have warned homeowners to be aware of the hidden costs of staying in your own home after the age of 65.

From rising home insurance to new maintenance laws – there are some key expenses many aren’t prepared for.

From soaring home insurance premiums to stricter maintenance regulations, unexpected fines, and even pet ownership costs, home expert Neil McKenzie from Halton Stairlifts warns that ageing in place might not be as affordable as many assume.

Neil says: "Many retirees plan to stay in their own homes for as long as possible, but rising costs and new regulations are making it more challenging. By staying informed and making small adjustments, seniors can maintain their independence without facing financial surprises."

The rising costs of staying put (and how to beat them)

Home insurance hikes – up to £500 more each year

Older people are seeing insurance premiums rise due to increased repair costs, extreme weather risks, and older home infrastructure.

Some homeowners over 65 have reported double-digit percentage increases, with average policies now costing £350 to £800 per year, depending on the property and location.

How to beat it: Review your home insurance annually – shopping around for better deals and bundling policies can help lower costs.

New home maintenance rules – fines up to £1,000

Local councils are introducing stricter regulations on garden maintenance, including overgrown hedges and trees blocking pavements.

Some pensioners have been fined between £100 and £1,000 for failing to keep up with these changes, with additional enforcement costs added for non-compliance.

How to beat it: Stay on top of home maintenance – Regular small updates, such as gutter clearing and tree trimming, can prevent costly fines and emergency repairs.

Pet ownership penalties – up to £500 for unregistered pets

With new microchipping laws for cats in the UK, pet owners who don’t comply could face fines of up to £500. Additionally, some retirement housing developments are tightening pet restrictions, with residents charged extra fees or told they must give up their animals.

How to beat it: Understand local council rules – Checking regulations on pet ownership, parking, and waste collection can prevent unexpected penalties.

Parking and Low Emission Zone Charges – Over £3,000 per year in some areas

More cities are expanding Low Emission Zones (LEZ), meaning older diesel cars that many pensioners still rely on are now subject to daily charges of £12.50 per day in London’s ULEZ and similar costs in other cities.

Over a year, this could add up to more than £3,000 in daily driving costs for pensioners who are unaware of the restrictions. In some areas, residential parking permits have also increased, adding further financial strain.

How to beat it: Consider eco-friendly transport options – Trading in high-emission vehicles for hybrid or electric alternatives can save on daily charges.

Bin Collection Fines – penalties of Up to £400 for incorrect waste disposal

Confusion around recycling rules and collection schedules has led to an increase in fines for missed or incorrect waste disposal. Councils have issued fines ranging from £60 to £400 for overflowing bins, putting out waste on the wrong day, or using the wrong bags.

How to beat it: Seek support from friends and neighbours.