Craftsmanship was paramount in the 1950's and 60's, which is why older houses are filled with character, from elaborate scotia to intricate lattice work, beautiful ivy-clad exteriors to quaint old-fashioned fireplaces. Old houses however, can be a headache if they are cold, damp and in need of serious repairs.
If you are in the market for an older home, always get a property inspection done first so you know what you are in for. At Straight Up Inspections, our building inspection services let you make an informed decision before buying an old home. Here’s a few things we look for.
What is the Condition of the Roof?
Older houses mean older roofs, and with older roofs you are more likely to find corrosion, missing nails and damaged spouting and down pipes. Roofs are expensive to replace; luckily a building inspector will alert you to the roof’s condition, letting you know if the house’s roof is likely to need repairs, replacements or repaints in the near future.
What’s Lurking Under the Yard?
While an old house on a big section may sound like a dream come true, tree roots growing underground can spell trouble. Large roots from existing or former trees can interfere with a house’s plumbing and foundations, and digging up these well-established roots can be as disruptive to your yard as they are to your bank account. Always ask the current owner about the yard’s history.
Other Bits and Pieces
If you are buying an older home, chances are you are on board with some home renovations, in fact this could be part of the house’s appeal. As house inspectors, our biggest piece of advice is to get a professional house inspection and consider the comprehensive ‘to do’ list.
A house inspection will reveal if things like fixtures, paint and heating are dated and in urgent need of repairs. You can then decide if it is a commitment you are willing to make.
There are many benefits to buying an older home – they have beautiful architecture and loads of charm; older homes exude homeliness and are often in prime real estate locations. Once you get your building inspection, you can decide if the pros outweigh the cons. It's best that you arrange your building inspection even before you contact a Tauranga property manager to discuss your needs for management and maintenance of your property.
Talk to Straight Up Inspections today and get that character-filled dream house in Tauranga, Whakatane, Rotorua or the wider Bay of Plenty inspected.
We offer a professional, same day inspection service.
Your builders report will be emailed the same day.
