3 Essential Checks You Must Consider Having Done When Purchasing an Older Property

Purchasing an older property is recommended if you’re looking for period features and charm. However, there are some important checks you must consider having done before completing on an older home. Being thorough with inspections and surveys will help you enter your new home with peace of mind.

EICR – Electrical Installation Condition Report

One of the most critical checks to have done on an older property is an EICR, also known as an electrical installation condition report. This inspection and report will be carried out by a qualified electrician and provides details on the condition of the electrics.

The electrician will check that the electrical installation is safe and identifies any damage, deterioration, defects, dangerous conditions or non-compliant work that needs remedying. This could relate to the wiring, fuse box, sockets, switches and more.

It’s essential to review an EICR before purchasing an older home. If the electrics are dated or faulty, this could present safety issues and be costly to fix. An EICR allows you to make an informed decision and budget for any required upgrades or repairs.

Gas Safety Check

All homes in the UK with a gas supply are legally required to have an annual gas safety check. When buying an older property, you should request the most recent gas safety record from the seller. This will reassure you that all gas appliances like the boiler, oven and hob have been inspected by a Gas Safe registered engineer and deemed safe.

If the seller cannot provide the latest gas safety certificate, you must arrange for an inspection before moving in. A gas safety check identifies and fixes any issues like gas leaks, poorly ventilated appliances or faulty parts. This reduces the risk of fire, explosion, carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards associated with malfunctioning gas systems.

Asbestos Survey

Many older homes in the UK were constructed using asbestos containing materials before they were banned in 1999. Common areas asbestos could be found include roofing, flooring, Artex ceilings, pipe insulation and more.

When inhaled, asbestos fibres pose serious health risks like lung cancer and asbestosis. For your safety and peace of mind, it is advisable to arrange an asbestos survey before purchasing an older property. This will identify if and where asbestos is present so you can plan for safe management or removal.

A qualified asbestos surveyor will take samples for testing. Based on the results of the asbestos survey, they will provide recommendations in an asbestos register report. This will outline if the asbestos is low risk or requires removal by a licensed contractor. Search for asbestos survey specialists in the UK to carry out checks on your property.

When buying an older home in the UK, do not skip these three essential checks. Although they may involve some extra cost in the purchasing process, identifying any issues with electrics, gas or asbestos could save you significant time, money and health risks down the track. Conducting thorough due diligence by arranging these surveys will help you make a safe, informed purchasing decision.