What property buyers need to know before purchasing old homes

Older homes in New Zealand are often charming, filled with character features, large living spaces, and solid construction.

The downside is that older homes can come with certain environmental risks that are not always obvious during an open home.

So if you’re considering purchasing an older property in New Zealand, there are a few things you may need to be extra wary of during the property inspection.

Asbestos in older building materials

One of the most important checks when buying an older home is for asbestos. Asbestos was widely used in New Zealand homes up until the late 1980s and can still be found in roofing, cladding, textured ceilings, vinyl flooring, insulation and other places. While asbestos is not always immediately dangerous when left undisturbed, it can become a serious health risk if damaged or renovated.

Identifying asbestos before you buy allows you to make informed decisions, so if you even think there’s a chance there may be asbestos present, it can be worth investing in a professional asbestos inspection – noting that this is not included in a standard property inspection or building report. 

If asbestos is found, this information can be used to negotiate the house price down or to request that asbestos removal is completed before settlement. Knowing the extent of asbestos in a property can also help you to plan renovation costs and timelines realistically.

Mould and moisture issues

Mould is another common issue in older homes here, especially those with poor ventilation, ageing roofing, subfloor moisture or historical leaks. Mould does not just affect the appearance of a home, as it can impact indoor air quality and contribute to respiratory issues, allergies and ongoing health concerns.

A professional mould assessment looks beyond visible mould growth and focuses on moisture sources and hidden contamination. If mould is identified during the pre-purchase phase, buyers can make a more informed decision about whether make an offer.

Lead-based paint risks

Many older homes still contain layers of lead-based paint, particularly on windows, trims and exterior surfaces. While lead paint may appear stable, it can become hazardous when it flakes, deteriorates or is sanded during renovations. Lead exposure can pose serious risks, particularly for children and pregnant women.

Testing for lead paint before purchasing an older home is often overlooked, but it’s a good item to add to your checklist if the home was built or renovated prior to 1980, especially if you’re planning any renovations of your own.

Poor ventilation and indoor air quality

Older homes might have the character of 20th century charm, but unfortunately they do not usually meet 21st century ventilation standards. This can mean anything from limited airflow and outdated systems to dampness and condensation.

A good building inspection should help you determine if improvements have already been made, or what improvements you might need to make for a healthier, more comfortable home.

Mould and asbestos removal with PROES

If you are considering buying an older home, we recommend speaking with professionals who understand environmental risks inside and around properties built before the 1980s.

Environmental testing and specific asbestos testing can help uncover any issues before purchase, giving buyers the opportunity to reassess the value of the property, or make plans (and set aside a budget) for environmental cleaning.

At PRO Environmental Services, we provide expert asbestos removal and mould removal services to help buyers move forward with confidence. You can contact us for a free, no-obligation quote before or after a purchase, or to ask any questions about what removal entails.