When you move into a new home, there are so many exciting things to discover about the space. Is there a secret passage? Is the attic accessible? What’s under this mysterious floorboard? With so many intriguing questions to answer, it can be easy to overlook details that pose important safety concerns. If you’re moving into an older home, you may find yourself dealing with an abundance of “newer” challenges that come with residing in a structure that is not brand-new construction.
From peeling lead paint to lead-lined water pipes, there are several concerning factors when considering an older property as your new home. The risks may not seem very apparent at first glance; however, there are many considerations you must take into account before signing the lease or finalizing your purchase agreement. To help you understand the important updates when you move into an older home, we have compiled some useful information below.
Covered Roof Damage
Your home’s roof protects you and your loved ones from the elements and a variety of potential dangers. You need to ensure that the roof covering is in good condition so that you do not suffer from the effects of water damage. If you notice that your roof is heavily damaged or if it has not been replaced recently, you may want to consider hiring a company that can provide Ventura County roofing services.
If you are renting, there may not be much you can do other than inform your landlord of the damage and request that it be repaired. However, if you are purchasing a home, you should definitely get the roof inspected and repaired or replaced as soon as possible. If the roof is not repaired quickly, you may suffer from water damage that affects the structural integrity of your home.
Lead in Your Home
The use of lead in residential construction declined significantly after the 1970s, but prior to that period, it was not uncommon. This means that you may be at risk of lead poisoning if you live in a house built before 1984. Depending on the specific circumstances of your home and its construction, you may be at a low, medium, or high risk of lead poisoning. You may want to get your home tested for lead, either before you buy it or after you move in. If you rent, you may be able to persuade your landlord to test for lead. If you own the property, you will probably have to pay for the test yourself.
Rot and Mold
Rot and mold problems can occur in any house at any time, but the risk is higher in older houses. In wet or humid conditions, wood and other materials used in construction can rot, leading to significant damage to your home. Mold spores can also quickly grow in these conditions, producing extensive mold growth that poses health risks. If you notice signs of rot or mold in your home, you should take steps to fix the problem as soon as possible. If you rent, you should inform your landlord of the issue so that it can be addressed right away. If you own the property, you will need to hire a contractor to fix the problem.
Faulty Wiring and Electrical Outlets
Older homes often have electrical wiring and outlets that are not up to modern standards. While you can still use these wiring systems, you will need to employ some special precautions to stay safe. Before you move in, make sure that the wiring has been inspected and that any necessary repairs have been made.
You can also have your home’s wiring inspected by a licensed professional. If you do find a problem, you will probably need to hire an electrician to make the necessary repairs. It is never a good idea to DIY any electrical work in your home. The years of education and experience an electrician needs to work on an older home is not something you can learn by watching videos online.
Keep Up with Regular Maintenance While Improving Your New Home
When you move into a new home, it is important to make sure that you have considered all the potential risks and set up a maintenance schedule to get any issues you find addressed. It is often helpful to hire a contractor to inspect the property prior to your move to give you an idea of any potential problems that you may encounter. This way, you can start off your new life in the right conditions, free from potential hazards.
