Have you been thinking about buying an old house? Yes, they’ve got all that charm, but with that charm comes a few hidden problems you might not be prepared for. These hidden dangers can cost you a lot more than you bargained for. If the house you’re eyeing was built before 2000, there are some sneaky issues you’ll want to keep an eye out for.
In this post, let’s break down five hidden dangers that often come with buying an older property. These are things that many buyers overlook, but knowing about them could save you a huge headache, time and money down the road.
Structural Movement or Subsidence
Structural movement or subsidence happens when the ground under the house sinks, which causes the building to move. You’ll usually see this in the form of cracks in the walls, especially around windows and doors, or floors that feel uneven.
Subsidence isn’t always obvious. It can happen for a few reasons: the soil underneath could shrink if it’s clay-heavy, tree roots might be stealing moisture from the ground, or leaking pipes could be eroding the soil. It’s a big deal because fixing subsidence can get expensive fast.
What you should do:
If you notice any cracks or other signs, definitely get a structural survey done. A professional surveyor can check if it’s a minor issue or something that needs fixing right away. Early detection and some preventive measures can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Asbestos Risks in Older Homes
Asbestos can be a big issue, especially in houses built before the 2000s. Before it was banned 1985, asbestos was used in everything from ceiling tiles to pipe lagging because of its fire-resistant properties. But it was banned for a reason – it’s incredibly dangerous when disturbed.
As you can’t see or smell asbestos, it’s easy to miss. If you plan on renovating or even knocking down walls, you could be at risk of releasing harmful fibres into the air, which can cause serious health problems like lung cancer or asbestosis. Before you start a renovation, peel or cut a small section and check for any visible signs and then process with your project.
What you should do:
If you suspect there might be asbestos in the house, don’t take any chances. As the team at Advance Asbestos Removal explains, “you’ll need a professional to be certain and to remove it safely.” Their fully licensed teams provide asbestos testing, removal, and disposal across the South East.
Damp and Mould
Damp and mould are more common than you think in older homes. It’s caused by moisture getting trapped in the walls, often due to poor ventilation or leaks. If left unchecked, mould can start growing. It doesn’t just look bad, it’s also harmful to your health.
You might notice a musty smell, visible mould on the walls or ceilings, or even peeling wallpaper. Damp and mould primarily affect the lungs and can make breathing harder, especially for kids, the elderly, or anyone with asthma or allergies.
What you should do:
Check for leaks around windows, pipes, or the roof. Improve the ventilation in the house, especially in damp-prone rooms like kitchens and bathrooms. If the problem’s serious, you might need a professional to survey the property and give you advice on how to fix it.
Outdated or Unsafe Electrical Systems
If you are renovating your home, you will be faced with a lot of outdated electrical systems. In homes built before the 1980s, you could find outdated wiring that doesn’t meet modern safety standards. It might not sound like a big deal, but old wiring is a fire risk and it can also lead to electric shocks.
You might notice signs like flickering lights, outlets that feel warm to the touch, or a circuit breaker that keeps tripping. Electrical faults can lead to fires and old systems can cause short circuits that damage new appliances which need a higher output. Outdated electrical systems aren’t energy efficient which means you could end up paying higher bills.
What you should do:
Before you buy, have a qualified electrician do a full inspection. They can tell you if the wiring needs to be upgraded, and if so, how much it’ll cost. Getting this checked out could save your house (and your wallet) down the line.
Invasive Plants
Last but not least, invasive plants. You might think it’s just some greenery in the garden, but certain plants like Japanese Knotweed or Giant Hogweed, can do serious damage to your home and garden. They spread like crazy and can even get into your foundations, causing major problems.
You’ll see Japanese Knotweed popping up with bamboo-like stems, and it’s not just an eyesore, it can ruin your walls and pipes. Giant Hogweed is another dangerous plant that can cause skin burns if you touch it and it spreads rapidly.
What you should do:
The best thing you can do is have a property inspected for these plants before you make an offer. If you spot any, don’t try to remove them yourself. Call in a professional to safely take care of it. Removing invasive plants early can save you from huge repair bills and legal issues if they spread to neighbouring properties.
Conclusion
Buying an old house can be exciting, but it’s important to be aware of the potential hidden dangers that come with it. Subsidence, asbestos, damp, outdated electrical systems and invasive plants might not be immediately obvious, but they can cause real headaches down the line.
So, before you get too attached to that charming fixer-upper, take the time to do a comprehensive inspection for these risks. A bit of professional help now can save you a lot of money and stress later. Whether it’s getting a structural survey, testing for asbestos, or having an electrician check the wiring, taking these steps will give you the confidence that you’re making a smart investment.
For more expert advice and latest insights, explore the latest property articles on Courtney’s Independent.
