What You need to Know About Buying a House Built in the 70’s

Home buyers are often hit with disappointments and even fears when they get a home inspection report that has lots of things you were simply not expecting. When this occurs, many buyers will instantly back out of purchasing a specific home. Many times the items listed in the report are not severe in nature but are the result of buying an older home. With that said, the professionals here at From the Ground Up Inspections want to provide clients with some of the important information you need to know when contemplating buying a house built in the 70’s. We have put together this informative piece not to alarm potential buyers, but rather to educate people on some of the things they may find in their inspection report when buying a house built in the 70’s.

What to Expect

Houses that were built in the 70’s typically have modern components, but obviously they are aged. Though heating and electrical systems are comprised of all the necessary safety and health components, they are apt to be somewhat faulty due to their age. Whether forced air heating, grounded electrical systems, ABS drain lines or insulation just to name a few, there are apt to be some repairs or replacements that will be needed. This is not to say that a house built in the 70’s is not healthy and safe, but rather they may present with some problems based upon their age. Three important issues that are apt to turn up in your inspection report for your ‘70’s home include issues with lead paint, aluminum wiring and asbestos.

During the 70’s there was a shortage of copper that was typically used for house wiring. With this shortage the industry turned to the next best material conductor – aluminum, which, at the time, was in abundance, performed well and was less costly than the copper was. However, over a short span of time, electrical fires became common in those homes with the aluminum wiring. It was determined that the aluminum itself was not solely responsible for the fires, but rather the chemical reaction that occurs when you connect dissimilar metals together. When performing a home inspection, the inspectors here at From the Ground Up Inspections will check for aluminum wiring and should we find any issues will recommend that a licensed electrician come in and evaluate and upgrade the system as needed in order to alleviate any fire hazards.

A second major concern when purchasing a house built in the 70’s is that of asbestos. Though asbestos back then was used as a fire retardant and also performed well as an insulating material, especially on the heating system, it was soon discovered that some types of asbestos were carcinogenic and were no longer permitted in homes. Our highly skilled and experienced inspectors here at From the Ground Up Inspections are fully aware of materials that contain asbestos. While we cannot confirm that asbestos is present by simply looking at it, we will typically suggest that a potential buyer have it tested by a qualified lab.

Finally, a third important concern potential buyers should have is that of lead paint. Lead was a primary component in house paints back in the 70’s. However, it was determined that the lead paint could be addictive and was, therefore, banned in the late 70’s.

A final thought from our team here at From the Ground Up Inspections. When buying a house built in the 70’s recognize that the house was built well over 45 years ago, so the chances that some items in the home will be worn out are obvious. Whether inspecting roofing, heating and cooling systems, plumbing fixtures, appliances, or window hardware to name a few, our experienced inspectors will recommend repair or replacement on any of these components where appropriate. We are all about our clients and certainly about their well-being and safety, which is why we have been recognized as one of the best all round home inspection companies in all the region.

Our final bit of advice to potential home buyers– when buying an older home be realistic, open-minded and practical, but most of all enjoy the experience – it doesn’t come along every day.  

Contact From the Ground Up Inspections
From the Ground Up Home Inspections always performs a thorough Home inspection, will clearly communicate their findings to you, along with providing you with a detailed report. For all your Middle Tennessee home inspection needs, From the Ground Up Inspections offers professional experience you can count on. To learn more about our services, prices or to schedule an appointment, contact From the Ground Up Inspections at (615) 351-1922. We look forward to helping you!

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