If you’re looking to buy a period property around Oxfordshire or the Cotswolds, you’ll be spoilt for choice. There are character properties aplenty, ranging from traditional 17th century cottages to grand Edwardian family homes. Unique architectural features include the obvious charms of sash windows and stained glass, original fireplaces and local stonework. Many homebuyers actively look for buildings that have some history and offer a more interesting lifestyle envelope than modern buildings.
At Andrew Goodwin & Associates, we love period buildings as much as you do. That said, as building experts and Chartered Surveyors with many years’ experience, we also know that maintaining and restoring old buildings can be costly and time consuming. Our professional advice to prospective buyers of period properties is to take off the rose-tinted spectacles and ask some difficult questions before you invest your hard-earned cash. We would also suggest that you set aside a contingency fund for unexpected (and unexpectedly expensive) repairs and renovations.
In practical terms, our Listed and Historic Building Survey is designed specifically for period properties. Based on an in-depth RICS Building Survey, we will provide detailed insights into the property’s condition, inspecting the grounds, outbuildings and main property. We will pay particular attention to the historic architecture, period features, construction methods and materials, flagging up issues of concern and give recommendations for repair and ongoing maintenance.
Here are some of the questions we recommend you ask before buying a period property:
1 – Is the house structurally sound?
Many homebuyers naively assume that just because a property has been standing for many centuries, it is bound to be structurally sound. This is a flawed assumption that can cost you dearly. Subsidence can seriously compromise the building’s value and make it uninsurable, unmortgageable and, ultimately, unliveable. Check the structure for large cracks in walls or ceilings, particularly around doors or windows, and especially if they run diagonally and are visible from the inside and outside. Ask your surveyors to establish if these are harmless cracks or if they could be the first signs of structural movement.
2 – Could there be a problem with damp?
Damp issues are a common occurrence in old buildings that were probably built with solid walls, inadequate ventilation and without a damp proof course. Even the layman’s nose will be able to detect the musty smell of damp in carpets, curtains or cupboards, or notice the tell-tale signs of peeling wallpaper or paint, damp patches or black mould on walls or ceilings. Your surveyors will be able to work out where the damp is coming from (e.g. roof damage, blocked gutters or drains), how serious an issue it is and how expensive it will be to put right.
3 – Gas and electrics – are they fit for purpose?
Safety rules and regulations for gas and electrics have changed substantially over the years. Is the property you’re looking to buy up to date? Look for evidence of an old electrical system such as Bakelite switches, old-fashioned 2-pin power sockets, surface mounted cabling, old fuse boxes with ceramic fuses etc. Bear in mind that rewiring an old house is likely to cost thousands and is not a job that you can put off until later. Check the kitchen and bathroom fixtures and fittings too, as well as the heating system – a boiler should be replaced after 15 years.
4 – How old is the plumbing and drainage system?
Similarly, ancient plumbing and pipes can be a real headache and costly to replace. Lead pipes were commonly used underground, but we now know that lead can leach into the water supply and pose a health risk. Water companies will typically replace a leaking lead pipe at no cost – but it’s a nasty, messy job that’s best to avoid if you can. What’s more, if the period property has a clay-drain system, this too should be replaced with modern PVC pipes in order to minimise the risk of leakage damaging the foundations. Your surveyors will be able to advise on any further investigations that should be carried out.
5 – Are there any planning restrictions?
Finally, it is absolutely essential that you find out at the earliest opportunity if the historic property you have your eye on forms part of a Conservation Area or has a designated ‘listed building’ status. In both cases, planning restrictions will apply and your permitted development rights will be curtailed. In practice, this means that you shouldn’t carry out any home improvements or refurbishments without checking with your local planning authority first, in case you require planning permission, Conservation Area Consent or Listed Building Consent. Once you have the necessary permissions in place, the work can go ahead – but expect it to take longer and cost more.
Get in touch
Buying a period property full of charm and history is the dream for many, but the time, effort and dedication needed to revive an old house can be financially and emotionally challenging. If you are ready to take on a period property in Oxford, Abingdon, Cirencester or Swindon and you are looking forward to looking after a piece of our architectural heritage, contact the team at Andrew Goodwin & Associates for expert advice and guidance.