Common hazards in older houses

by Ann Hayward 11/11/2024

Older homes might have high-quality, solid structures and seem to be in good condition. However, there are possible hidden hazards lurking in your older house. Knowing what these hazards are can help you make sure your older home provides a safe place for you and your household. These are a few of the more common kinds of hazards found in older houses.

Asbestos

Asbestos was commonly used in homes built in the 1940s and later due to its fire-resistant properties. This material might be found in your home's walls, insulation, floor tiles, ceiling tiles and other places.

Asbestos can raise the risk of developing serious health problems, such as lung disease, when its fibers are airborne, which can happen when you do any remodeling or make other changes to your home which disturb the asbestos. Have professionals inspect your home and remove asbestos safely before attempting any remodeling.

Wiring problems

Older houses might have wiring that isn't up to code or other problems, such as outlets that aren't grounded. You're more likely to encounter these issues in houses built before 1960. Non-grounded outlets don't provide you and your household with protection from electric shocks when surges occur. Older wiring and outlets can also increase your home's risk of a fire. Having an electrician update your outlets and wiring as needed can help prevent these risks.

Galvanized pipes

Some homes built in the 1950s or earlier might have galvanized pipes. These pipes are considered outdated and can cause leaks to occur due to corrosion and the buildup of sediment inside them. Historic homes built in the early 1800s have a higher chance of having these kinds of pipes, but check your older home for this kind of plumbing just to be safe. A plumber can replace galvanized pipes with newer ones that are more durable and less likely to leak.

Lead paint

Lead paint wasn't banned until 1978, so your older home might have this type of paint. Lead paint can cause a wide range of health problems, especially in kids, so it's important to eliminate it safely. Have a professional handle this task for you, since sanding walls and other surfaces could expose you and your household to lead paint. Professionals can eliminate lead paint from your home in a safer manner.

About the Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]