Around 12.3 million households across the UK have put off home repairs because of rising living costs, research from Go.Compare Home Insurance has found.
The research revealed that 43% of people had to postpone some kind of work on their home due to the cost-of-living crisis.
The research also found that about 6.4 million households have delayed repairs to damaged properties, saying they could not afford to fix them.
Cosmetic jobs were the most likely to be held back, as 30% said they had put off decorating.
A further 26% said they had delayed other kinds of maintenance.
Cleaning gutters was the biggest job people had put off, as 15% said it was not a priority.
Additionally, the research revealed delays to fixing windows and exterior walls, with one in nine households saying these jobs had been postponed.
The findings also showed families and people on lower incomes were more likely to put off jobs.
Over half (57%) of people with children said they have delayed work because of rising costs, compared to 40% of those without.
Meanwhile, just over half (51%) of lower income households reported putting off repairs, compared to 40% of higher income households.
Some residents said they plan to take on delayed tasks in future.
Furthermore, around 22% said they would clear their gutters by the end of summer, while 13% planned to check or repair windows and doors.
One in 10 said they would check or repair their roof.
Nathan Blackler, home insurance expert at Go.Compare, said: “Rising living costs are clearly forcing many households to delay maintenance work in and around their property.
“Paying for the essentials will always come first but putting off repairs, especially serious ones, can have a significant impact on your safety over the long term.
“Plus, home insurance usually requires you to keep your property in good condition, so your insurer likely wouldn’t accept your claim if things started to deteriorate and you were found to be at fault.”
Blackler added: “Insurance prices have actually dropped recently, too, so comparing now could help you find a cheaper policy.
“This could give you one less cost to worry about and free up some cash to make those repairs.
“It’s worth exploring the different ways you can make repairs when times are tight.”
He said: “Some jobs will need to be done professionally, so don’t attempt any repairs yourself unless you’re confident it’s safe and legal to do so.
“Consider contacting Citizens Advice or your local authority if you need help, as they could advise on how you can get support through the provision of things like loans, grants or materials.”
