Buying an Older Home? Check for These 5 Things First

The character, charm, and unique personality of older homes are undeniable—and just a few of the reasons why many home buyers can’t imagine moving into a new build. Older homes are also often constructed in prime locations with lower price tags than modern high rises. Purchasing an older home can be a great investment, especially for first-time homebuyers—if you know what potential problems to look out for before signing on the dotted line.

During the buying process, make sure you watch out for these five potential problem areas in older homes.

1. Old or substandard electrical and plumbing

Rewiring and updating plumbing are both expensive and extensive projects, which is why many older homes still have their original knob-and-tube wiring and cast-iron pipes. Both pose safety risks, as an old electrical system can cause a fire, and corroded pipes can result in leaks and weak water flow.

2. Radon

Radon is a carcinogen created by the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, water, and rock. When this happens in nature, it dissipates and poses no threat. But if radon gets trapped within a home, it becomes dangerous for humans. Many pre-1970s homes weren’t built with this in mind, so they can be more susceptible to radon buildup.

3. Hazardous materials

Older homes are more likely to contain hazardous materials, including lead and asbestos. Lead was commonly used in exterior and interior paint up until 1978 and within plumbing systems built before the mid-1980s. This lead can leak into the environment and the water system, causing significant health issues. Asbestos was also used in gas fireplaces, insulation, roofing, and wallboard patching compounds up until the 1970s, when officials became aware of the health risks.

4. Foundation or structural concerns

Over time, even the most solidly built homes can form cracks and unevenness in the foundation slab. This can cause corrosion, dry rot, moisture damage, and other risks. When inspecting an older home, check for doors and windows that jam easily, visible wall cracks, cracked tile, and uneven floors, as these are common signs of foundation problems.

5. Dysfunctional smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors

In many states, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are required on every level of a home. But even if a home features both, they may be outdated or not working properly. As smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors usually aren’t a priority when house hunting, it’s easy to forget to make sure they are present and test to see if they are working properly.