The Most Complained-About Home Services by Seniors

The Takeaway

• Seniors file the most complaints about plumbing, HVAC, and remodeling services—especially when the stakes (and costs) are high.
• Pest control and handyman services come next, followed by appliances, security systems, and cleaning crews.
• Every service comes with risk—but also with ways to protect yourself. Our step-by-step checklists can help.

When “help around the house” becomes a hassle

When Evelyn, 77, called a local HVAC company in Utah to inspect her furnace, she never expected to be billed over $24,000. According to Fox 13 Investigates, the company replaced parts that didn’t need replacing, charged for unapproved upgrades, and used high-pressure tactics aimed at older customers. She's not alone—hundreds of similar complaints have poured in across the U.S.

From water heaters to weeding services, the home service sector is filled with reputable pros—but also with companies that exploit trust, confusion, and the challenges of aging. Based on consumer protection data, legal filings, BBB complaints, and media investigations, here’s how these companies stack up in the senior complaint department.

Ranked: Home Services That Frustrate Seniors Most

Service-by-Service Checklists

Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC

• Ask if the technician is licensed and bonded
• Get a written estimate before any work begins
• Never agree to work suggested during a “free inspection” without comparison
• Avoid signing on-the-spot financing contracts
• Request a breakdown of parts vs. labor charges
• Check reviews on BBB and Google before booking
• Verify if emergency pricing is different than standard service

Remodeling, Painting, Renovation

• Ask for a detailed written contract including timeline, materials, and price
• Verify contractor’s license and insurance
• Avoid large upfront deposits (never more than 30%)
• Request references from recent clients
• Do not pay in full until the job is finished to your satisfaction
• Check permit requirements before work begins
• Watch for vague language like 'estimate may change'

Pest Control, Landscaping/Lawn, Snow Removal

• Request service agreement in writing
• Avoid annual contracts unless fully understood
• Beware of bundled services you didn’t ask for
• Ask for credentials and licensing in pest control
• Make sure treatments and follow-up dates are documented
• Check for auto-renewal clauses

Thinking about hiring a Pest Control or Landscaping service company? This checklist might come in handy.

Download here

Handyman Services

• Ask for a quote in writing before work begins
• Check if the service provider has liability insurance
• Clarify if they charge by hour or by job
• Inspect completed work before paying
• Ask what happens if the work isn’t completed
• Request itemized receipt

Appliance Repair & Home Warranty

• Check if your appliance is still under manufacturer warranty
• Request written service scope before repairs begin
• Don’t rely solely on warranty mailers—check with the manufacturer
• Know what the warranty covers and excludes
• Call the service provider directly—don’t respond to robocalls or postcards
• Ask for estimated time to repair

Security System Installation & Monitoring

• Avoid long-term contracts without a clear cancellation policy
• Confirm monthly monitoring fees and rate lock terms
• Check if equipment is leased or owned
• Request written installation and service agreement
• Get all verbal promises in writing
• Ensure the installer is certified and background-checked

Cleaning Services

• Ask if the company is insured for property damage
• Request scope of service in writing
• Avoid large deposits—pay after service when possible
• Clarify if this is a one-time service or a recurring subscription
• Inspect areas after service and report problems immediately
• Request a final itemized receipt

Home Organization & Decluttering

• Ask about training or certification in home organizing
• Avoid emotional pressure to add extra hours or services
• Do not allow unsupervised access to valuables or private documents
• Request an hourly or flat rate quote in writing
• Be clear about what stays and what goes
• Check for reviews and photos of past work

Methodology

To rank these service types, Smart Senior Daily analyzed a wide range of complaint data and consumer feedback from trusted sources. These included:

·       Better Business Bureau complaint records

·       Federal Trade Commission consumer alerts

·       Investigative reporting from outlets like Fox 13 Utah

·       Public lawsuits and legal filings involving home service providers

·       Discussion threads and reviews on platforms like Reddit, AgingCare, and Angi

We considered four main factors:

1.     Volume of complaints from seniors and their families

2.     Severity of consequences (e.g., financial loss, home damage, personal safety risks)

3.     Likelihood of targeting older adults (e.g., through scare tactics or upselling)

4.     Responsiveness of companies to fix problems or honor cancellations

The rankings reflect patterns as of mid-2025. Individual experiences may vary.

Disclaimer: This checklist is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we’ve made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, individual experiences may vary. Always do your own research, seek professional guidance where appropriate, and consult local laws and regulations before hiring any service provider. Smart Senior Daily does not endorse or guarantee any specific company or service.