Not all houses are the same. Like a vehicle, technologies evolve over time. Construction methods and security features are continually improving. Older homes can have components that are, well, old.
If you are buying a home that was built more than 40 or 50 years ago, there are a few things to consider so you don’t feel disappointed once you move in. Your home inspector must identify certain components of the home even if they are working properly. They may be old, made up of ancient technology, or they may not be enough for today’s modern families. These components include electrical service panels, ungrounded circuits, furnaces, insulation, windows, etc.
Older electrical panels may be undersized. An electrical panel that provides less than 100 amps may not provide enough electricity for your family. In the 1950s, a home may have had a television, if they were wealthy. In the kitchen,
The countertop appliances consisted of a coffee pot and perhaps an electric can opener. That’s! Today it is common for a home to have multiple large televisions, AV systems, microwave ovens, large refrigerators, multiple computers, ceiling fans, hair dryers, hot tubs, etc. These elements consume a lot of energy. If the home’s electrical system hasn’t been updated, it may not be grounded (and not as safe!) And it may not be able to meet your electrical demand. You may need to budget for an electrical system upgrade.
Older ovens have several problems. Due to the moderate climate in San Diego, we often see original ovens in older homes. They may still be functional, but these older units are inefficient, noisy, and pose a fire hazard. They lack many of the safety features that are now built into ovens, such as overheat protection and panel cover kill switches. Older ovens use a lot more gas because they still have a pilot light instead of electronic ignition. The ovens are expected to last 20 years.
Older heating systems can also include components that contain asbestos. Determining the presence of asbestos is beyond the scope of a home inspection. But your home inspector must have the knowledge to identify components that may contain asbestos. Replacing ducts that contain asbestos can incur additional costs.
Another system that may be near the end of its useful life is the plumbing system. Older houses were provided with galvanized steel pipes that rust over time. And old cast iron drain lines have a life expectancy of 40 to 50 years. Often these pipes can look good, but a video scan is recommended. Cast iron drain lines rust from the inside. Upgrading the drainage system can be expensive. A video scan in addition to a home inspection is highly recommended, as home inspectors do not conduct video scans of sewer lines.
Older homes in San Diego can also lack insulation, and older windows are not as thermally efficient as modern windows. There are many incentives and tax credits to improve the components of your home.
Be sure to ask your home inspector for the age and condition of these items, as they can be very expensive to replace.