The negative consequences of a person's actions eventually return to affect them; past misdeeds or errors produce retaliation, trouble, or punishment later on.
A warning that wrongdoing, negligence, or unwise behavior will ultimately result in retribution or harmful outcomes for the originator.
2.
Worldwideinformalidiomaticthreatening
Used as a threat or admonition implying that someone will face consequences for their actions in the near future.
Examples:
EN: Just remember, when the chickens come home to roost, I'll... I'll be there, baby.
ES: Sólo recuerda, cuando te pase el capricho... yo estaré esperándote, linda.
EN: It never is when the chickens come home to roost, and you're the roost.
ES: Nunca lo es cuando las gallinas vienen a casa a dormir. Y tú eres el gallo.
EN: They think they can get away with something, but sooner or later the chickens come home to roost, right?
ES: Creen poder salir impune... pero, tarde o temprano, todo sale a la luz, ¿no?