7 Common Problems To Look Out For In A Period Property

Period properties are buildings constructed before World War I. Their history gives them a lot of charm, but it also means that they can be more prone to wear and tear or outdated features. If you’ve recently purchased a period property - or are thinking of investing in a period home - here are a few common problems you may want to inspect.

Start by checking the electrics. Some period properties still have original ‘knob and tube’ wiring - which was not designed for today’s electrical demands and is often heavily worn, making it a potential fire risk. Getting an electrician to rewire your home is recommended if you have old wiring. Signs your electrics may need replacing include flickering lights, buzzing sounds from outlets or frequent circuit breaker trips.

Many period homes also have old pipes. Some of these may be heavily corroded or even made from toxic materials like lead. Warning signs that you may have issues with your plumbing include poor water pressure, discolored water or leaks. As with rewiring a house, replumbing a house is a big job, but necessary if your plumbing is older for preventing water damage and maintaining clean water.

Roofs and gutters can wear out over time. If your home’s roof and guttering are original, it’s likely that they’re not in condition. If you’re getting rainwater coming through your roof or leaking through your guttering, consider hiring a company like Superior Gutters and Roofing to take a look.

A serious problem to look out for in an older home is foundation problems. This is when the base of a home starts to sink or deteriorate. Look out for warning signs such as large cracks in walls, basement leaks, sloped or buckled floors, doors that stick or visibly leaning walls. Using techniques like underpinning or reinforcement, foundations can be fixed and strengthened to stop your home collapsing.

While old windows and doors can help contribute to a period home’s character, such features can become a security risk and lead to drafts and leaks if they are not well maintained. You may have no choice but to get rid of window frames or doors once they become heavily warped or rotten. If damage is minor, restoration may still be possible, as this guide at Little House On The Corner explains.

Pests such as rodents or termites can sometimes be an issue in period properties. These critters can chew through your floorboards, walls, insulation and even wiring. If you think you have a pest problem, consider calling out pest control to get to the bottom of it. Fumigating your home may be necessary if you have a serious infestation.

Most older homes were not built with much insulation, causing them to lose heat quickly in winter. Improvements like roof insulation, cavity wall insulation and double pane windows could be worth looking into if you don’t already have these insulation features. This could greatly reduce your energy bills in winter.