Renovating an Older Home in Havant: Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
Havant and the surrounding areas—such as Bedhampton, Leigh Park, Emsworth and Langstone—have a wide mix of older properties, from Victorian terraces to 1930s semis and post-war homes. While these properties offer charm and character, they often come with hidden issues that only become obvious once renovation work begins.
If you’re planning to renovate an older home in Havant, here are the most common problems you may encounter and practical advice on how to avoid unexpected costs and delays.
1. Outdated or Unsafe Electrics
Older homes often have wiring that no longer meets modern safety standards.
Common problems include:
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- Old fuse boards without RCD protection
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- Rubber or fabric-wrapped wiring
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- Limited socket numbers
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- Frequently tripping circuits
How to avoid issues:
Book an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) before starting any renovation work. This gives you a clear understanding of what needs upgrading.
2. Ageing Plumbing & Poor Water Pressure
Many older Havant properties still rely on original copper or steel pipework. Over time, this can lead to:
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- Leaks behind walls or under floors
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- Low water pressure
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- Slow-draining waste pipes
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- Inefficient heating systems
Tip:
Factor plumbing upgrades into your renovation budget—especially for kitchen or bathroom refits.
3. Damp, Condensation & Ventilation Problems
Damp is common in older homes across Havant due to solid walls, ageing roofs, and limited ventilation.
Typical warning signs:
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- Peeling paint or wallpaper
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- Musty smells
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- Mould behind furniture
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- Cold corners or walls
Prevention:
Carry out a damp survey before plastering or decorating, and improve airflow with ventilation upgrades where needed.
4. Structural Issues in Older Properties
Historical settlement, previous DIY alterations, and ageing timber can affect the structure of older buildings.
Look out for:
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- Cracks above doorways
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- Sagging floors
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- Rotten joists
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- Chimney breast movement
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- Load-bearing walls previously altered without support
Solution:
A structural engineer’s assessment helps identify risks before renovation begins.
5. Insulation & Energy Efficiency Problems
Older homes are often cold and expensive to heat due to:
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- Poor loft insulation
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- Uninsulated cavity walls
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- Draughty windows
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- Inefficient boilers
Benefit of addressing this early:
Upgrading insulation during renovation is far cheaper—and avoids opening walls again later.
6. Hidden DIY Mistakes From Previous Owners
Many Havant homeowners discover hidden problems from old DIY jobs, including:
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- Incorrectly moved walls
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- Unsafe wiring
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- Poor plumbing installations
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- Unsupported flooring
How to avoid issues:
Have a qualified builder inspect key areas before renovations begin.
7. Planning Permission and Building Regulations
If you’re renovating a period property, extending, or converting space, you may need:
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- Planning permission
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- Building Control approval
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- Certificates for electrics and plumbing
Working with an experienced local builder helps ensure your renovation stays compliant and moves smoothly.