Buying an old house is a dream come true for plenty of people. The opportunity for character, period features, and more space is extremely appealing, but older homes also come with potential issues.
As you search for older properties and before you commit to a purchase, make sure you complete this ‘buying an old house checklist’ to avoid any nasty surprises or costly oversights…
Questions to ask when buying an old house
It is essential to thoroughly investigate any property before purchasing, but buying an old house requires a little more consideration. Your first step is to find out:
- Have any structural surveys been carried out recently?
- What significant repairs have been undertaken, and were they done by accredited professionals? Obtain certificates and/or any proof of what, when and by whom work was completed.
- Are there damp issues or subsidence risks?
- What heating system does the property have? Older properties may lack modern energy-efficient systems, leading to higher running costs.
- Are there any planning restrictions? If the property is in a Conservation Area or is a Listed building, certain works may require additional permissions, which can be prohibitive/expensive.
Go into fine detail
Older properties pose a greater risk of issues due to ageing structure, plumbing and wiring; outdated building techniques; greater chance of amendments over the years; and a higher chance of being in a Conservation Area / being Listed and therefore trickier to maintain.
Getting as much information as possible about the property will help you make decisions about your potential purchase. You do not have to do this alone as there are professionals with knowledge and experience in this precise area of expertise. However, as a guide, here is what to look out for when buying an old house UK:
Structural and safety concerns
- Damp and mould – rising damp, penetrating damp, condensation, leakage.
- Subsidence or movement – cracks, uneven floors, foundation issues.
- Structural considerations – undersized members/frame movement
- Roof condition – slate/tile age, leaks, structural timbers.
- Electrics and plumbing – outdated wiring, lead pipes, inefficient systems.
Materials and hazards
- Asbestos in insulation, floor tiles, and roofing (pre-2000).
- Lead paint and pipes in pre-1970s properties.
- Timber decay: woodworm, dry rot, wet rot.
Energy efficiency
- Older homes often have poor insulation, single-glazed windows, and inefficient heating.
- Potentially higher running costs and harder to upgrade.
Legal and compliance checks
- Planning permission for any extensions/alterations.
- Listed Building or Conservation Area restrictions.
- Building Regulations compliance on any past work.
Costs and ongoing maintenance
Based on all the information you gather about the property, it is possible to estimate what immediate, ongoing and future costs you will face.
- Budget for renovations (rewiring, damp proofing, roofing, insulation).
- Insurance may be higher for older properties.
- Ongoing maintenance is more demanding than newer builds.
Book a relevant survey
There are different types of house surveys available, and it is important to select the correct type for your property. When buying an old house, a Level 3: Building Survey (commonly called a Structural Survey) is the correct choice as it goes into the greatest depth.
Your RICS Chartered Surveyor will check for everything we have highlighted, answering all the
questions to ask when buying an old house. You will gain essential insight into the property, providing you with all the information you need to make important decisions.
Even if the report you receive highlights problems, it is much better to know before committing legally to the purchase. A survey report assists the decision-making process and offers support to your negotiating position. We also offer advice on what to do after receiving your survey report.
Get in touch
Buying an old property can be hugely rewarding but it is essential to properly prepare. Get a professional survey, set realistic budgets and make sure you understand what you are taking on.
If you are thinking about buying an old property, we are here to help. Please get in touch for advice on surveys and your next steps before committing to a purchase. We are here to answer all your questions.
If you are ready to book a residential survey, click here to get started.