Your home’s electrical panel is the heart of your electrical system, and in older homes, it can be a source of serious problems. Outdated panels, improper wiring, or insufficient capacity for modern electrical demands can create safety hazards and expensive upgrades.
What to know: Your inspector should check the electrical panel during a standard inspection. However, make sure you understand the panel’s age, capacity, and whether it meets current electrical codes. If you’re looking at homes built before 1990, pay extra attention to this area.
2. Lead Paint
If you’re buying a home built before 1978, there’s a high probability that lead paint was used somewhere in the property. Lead exposure is particularly dangerous for young children and can cause serious health issues.
3. Asbestos
Once hailed as a miracle material for insulation and fireproofing, asbestos was commonly used in homes built before the 1980s. It can be found in insulation, floor tiles, roofing materials, and even popcorn ceilings.
4. Prior Damages and Repairs
Water damage, foundation issues, or structural repairs that were patched over can be ticking time bombs in older homes. Sometimes these problems are cosmetically concealed but not properly fixed.
5. Prior Building Permits
Major renovations, additions, or structural changes typically require building permits. If previous owners did work without permits or didn’t complete inspections properly, you could inherit code violations and face difficulties when selling the home later.
What to know: Your inspector won’t research permit history, but you should. Contact your local building department to request permit records for the property. If you notice significant renovations or additions, verify that proper permits were pulled and final inspections were completed.
6. Sewer Line Condition
One of the most expensive surprises for homeowners is a failing sewer line. Tree roots, corrosion, and age can cause sewer lines to crack, collapse, or become blocked—leading to backups and costly repairs.
What to know: A standard home inspection does not include a sewer line inspection. You must request a separate sewer scope inspection, which involves sending a camera through the line to check for damage. This is especially important for homes over 40 years old or properties with mature trees nearby.
7. Outdated or Dangerous Wiring
Older homes can have wiring systems that are outdated, dangerous, or insufficient for modern electrical needs. Homes from the 1960s and 70s may have aluminum wiring, which can be a fire hazard. Even older homes might still have knob-and-tube wiring from the early 1900s.
8. Soil Type and Movement
The ground beneath your home matters more than you might think. Expansive soils that swell when wet and shrink when dry can cause foundation movement, leading to cracks and structural damage over time.
What to know: Inspectors won’t typically know the soil type or movement history, but you might see clues like foundation cracks, doors that stick, or uneven floors. Research your area’s soil conditions and look for signs of foundation issues. In areas prone to soil movement, consider hiring a structural engineer for a specialized foundation inspection.
9. Is It a Flip?
House flipping has become increasingly popular, but not all flips are created equal. Some flippers cut corners, use cheap materials, or skip permits to maximize profits. A poorly done flip can leave you with cosmetic appeal covering serious problems.
The Bottom Line
Buying an older home requires due diligence beyond the standard inspection. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, request specialized inspections, and do your own research. While these additional steps may cost more upfront, they can save you from expensive surprises and help you negotiate a fair price. Remember, knowledge is power in real estate. The more you know about a property’s hidden issues before closing, the better prepared you’ll be to either walk away or move forward with confidence.
Ready to start your home search? Understanding what to look for is the first step toward making a smart investment in an older property.
