Buying an Older Home? Here’s What to Look Out For

By L7 Home Inspections

There’s something undeniably special about older homes. From crown molding to hardwood floors and built-in character, houses built before the 1980s often have a charm that newer builds can’t replicate.

But behind that vintage appeal could be aging systems and hidden hazards that today’s buyers need to know about. If you’re considering a home built 40+ years ago, a thorough home inspection is more important than ever.

At L7 Home Inspections, we’ve inspected countless older homes—and we know exactly what to look for to protect your investment.

🏚 Common Issues in Older Homes

Here are some of the most common concerns we find in pre-1980s homes:

1. Electrical System Concerns

Many older homes still have:

• Aluminum wiring (used in the '60s and '70s), which can overheat

• Knob-and-tube wiring (common before 1950), which is outdated and often ungrounded

• Undersized service panels (60-100 amps) that can’t handle modern electrical loads

⚠️ Outdated electrical systems may not only be dangerous but also uninsurable without upgrades.

2. Plumbing Issues

Materials like:

• Galvanized steel (prone to corrosion and reduced flow)

• Cast iron drainpipes (can crack or clog)

• Polybutylene (used in the late '70s and '80s, known to fail)

These materials can lead to leaks, water damage, and costly repairs down the line.

3. Aging Roofs

Roofs wear down over time, and older homes may still have:

• Layered shingles (which can hide damage)

• No underlayment or ventilation systems

• Evidence of leaks or water intrusion

A roofing issue is one of the most expensive repairs you could face.

4. Foundation & Structural Problems

Over decades, foundations can settle or shift. Signs include:

• Uneven or sloping floors

• Cracks in walls or ceilings

• Sticking doors and windows

Our inspections check for visible signs of settlement, moisture intrusion, or structural deficiencies that need professional evaluation.

5. Outdated HVAC Systems

Older furnaces, boilers, and A/C units may:

• Be inefficient and costly to run

• Lack modern safety features

• Be at or near the end of their usable life

An older HVAC system may work now, but how long will it last?

6. Environmental Hazards

Homes built before modern regulations may contain:

• Asbestos (in insulation, flooring, or ceiling tiles)

• Lead-based paint (banned in 1978)

• Radon (more common in basements and crawl spaces)

While a general home inspection identifies potential signs, testing for these hazards requires specialty services, which we can provide or arrange.

🏡 Why Older Homes Still Deserve a Chance

Despite the risks, older homes can be excellent investments—often located in well-established neighborhoods with larger lots and quality craftsmanship.

The key is to understand what you’re buying. A professional home inspection helps uncover both the strengths and the weaknesses of the property, so you can budget, plan, and negotiate with confidence.

🛠 Recommended Add-On Inspections for Older Homes

To get a clearer picture of an older property, we often recommend:

• ✅ Sewer scope inspection – roots and cracks are common in older lines

• ✅ WDI (termite) inspection – long-term wood structures attract pests

• ✅ Radon testing – especially for homes with basements

• ✅ Mold testing – water intrusion is more common in older structures

• ✅ Electrical panel evaluation – especially if original equipment is still in place

These services offer low upfront costs for huge peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Older homes can be beautiful, unique, and full of potential—but they can also come with surprises you don’t want after closing. A thorough inspection by L7 Home Inspections ensures you know exactly what you’re getting—and what to expect moving forward.

Buying an older home? Make sure your inspection goes beyond the basics. Contact L7 Home Inspections today to schedule your inspection and any recommended add-ons.

📞 (573) 586-9694 🌐 www.L7homeinspections.com📍 Serving Bell County and Surrounding Areas