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Buying an older property appeals to many people. Taking a house that has been unloved for many years and slowly transforming it back to its former glory is exciting and incredibly rewarding. However, it is undeniable that transforming an older property is not without its pitfalls. While the building may be charming and have all the makings of your dream home, it is essential to be aware of the potential problems that could arise. Knowing what to look out for will ensure you can complete the renovation to the highest standard and create a property that stands the test of time.
When renovating an older property, it is best to take a back to basics approach. So, before you start any of the fun stuff like making over antique furniture and choosing a color scheme, you need to tackle some of the more basic tasks. Here are some areas that may require attention when planning your renovation:
Check the Roof
The roof of a home is one of the most crucial elements of its structure, yet it is something many people forget about when they purchase a home. Even something as simple as a loose tile blowing off in a storm can be enough to allow rainwater to leak into your roof space and cause damage to the rest of the property. Having a professional roofing company survey the roof should help detect any current or potential issues that need to be resolved.
Look for Structural Problems
Structural damage and foundation issues are enough to scare most homebuyers. Thankfully, these issues are often repairable, especially when detected early enough. You may notice problems with the foundation and ground movement yourself when you look around the home. Telltale signs of structural issues include floors that slope, doors that cannot shut properly or jam, cracks, and warped siding. Having the structure of your home and its foundation thoroughly inspected should help you detect any problems and get the issues dealt with pretty quickly.
Deal with Unwanted Guests
Unfortunately, even the cleanest homes can sometimes attract unwanted visitors in the form of pests and termites. If your property has been unoccupied, the chances of finding pests lurking around are even higher. Being alert to the signs of pests in the house is a wise idea, and if there is an infestation, it will help you get it dealt with faster. Calling a residential pest control company to tackle the problem will help you get the pests under control and help to ensure your home is free from these uninvited guests.
Inspect the Plumbing and Electric Systems
Older homes can sometimes still contain outdated electrical and plumbing systems. If you are unsure about the age of your plumbing and electrics, it is wise to get them checked before you do anything else. This will help ensure they are safe to use and prevent you from decorating the property only to find it destroyed when you need new electrics or plumbing months down the line.
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