4 Things to Inspect Before Buying an Older Home
The house you want can easily be considered a classic. Its architecture dates back to the Victorian era. This house stands tall in vintage beauty, but its inner workings might tell a different story.
When buying an old home, you get access to sometimes niche architecture that isn’t available in the modern day. However, you may be inheriting some pretty aged and weathered components of the property that can spell a nightmare to your wallet and well-being.
When buying an older home, it’s time for the utmost attention to detail. Here are four things you must inspect before buying an old home.
1. Radon
Radon is a naturally occurring, odorless, and colorless gas caused by the breakdown of uranium in the earth. Radon dissipates in nature, however under homes, not so much. Radon can become trapped within the house, which can be a leading cause of cancer.
Construction methods on newer homes have taken steps to prevent radon from seeping into your home. However, older homes may not have these new methods implemented yet, so the threat of high radon levels is more likely.
2. Electrical System
Outdated electrical systems can not only cause plenty of headaches, but they can also be extremely dangerous to keep in a home. Older homes having the same electrical system 30 years old or greater will have problems powering modern technology.
Additionally, having an outdated electrical system increases your chances of an arc fault, which can lead to a house fire.
3. Plumbing System
The plumbing system has given homes around the world hydration and sanitation since the mid-1800s. It’s safe to say plumbing is the most important thing in your home. Not only that, but plumbing systems are durable, lasting anywhere between 25-100 years depending on the materials used.
However, when you buy an older home, that means you may end up with a plumbing system nearing the end of its life. Getting the plumbing system inspected before you agree to purchase the home can save you significant amounts of money.
4. Foundation
The foundation lasts the longest compared to every other part of your home. It keeps your house from succumbing to the movement of the earth. However, its durability and lifespan are still finite.
When a foundation needs to be replaced, you’re looking at tens of thousands of dollars worth of repair. Foundation problems are common in an older home, so make sure you inspect it thoroughly before buying.
Contact DMC Home Inspections for Trusted Inspections
At DMC Home Inspections, we practice 150 points of thorough home inspections to find anything and everything wrong with your potential new house.
Schedule your inspection online or give us a call at 763-310-1692 today!