Are there special considerations when flipping a 1940's home?

Question

I am considering purchasing a 1940's home that we will need to add sq. footage to and vault the ceiling.   Are there special considerations such as wiring and piping, that are specific to this type of home or do I treat it as any renovation.   This will be my first investment property, EVER.

Andrew Postell · Answer

@Naomi Scarlett I currently live in a home built in 1928 here in Texas.  There can certainly be A LOT of things that come up with a home of this age.  The 3 items I would suggest researching are foundation, hydrostatic testing (to see if piping and sewer line have leaks), and the circuit breaker box.  The work you described in your post sounds pretty cool.  I would bet all the structural items and permits would be used so your county will have a say if certain things are in order or not in regards to the work.  I'm sure we can talk about hundreds of other things too but those 3 items would be my main suggestion.  Thanks!

Edgar Cifuentes · Answer

If absolutely nothing has been done sine 1940 there are a lot of deficiencies that maybe present.  The standards homes were built in that era are completely different to what is acceptable now. Back in those days asbestos was barely new to the market and was used for many things such as siding, plaster walls, insulation, duct work and even shingles. It would be amazing if they never replaced the roof but also it was common practice to just throw a new roof without removing the old one, this may cause extra stress in the framing and foundation so look at that as well. As for Electrical, aluminum wiring is a red flag not seeing it can't be used but it has greater chances of malfunctioning and causing a fire vs copper(aluminum was used more in the Vietnam era but this is just precaution), make sure all electrical work is grounded (you can tell if the receptacle are 2 prong and not 3), Service and Panel size would also need to be adequate if you plan on adding more rooms and circuits(I recommend at least 150 Amps). As for plumbing, you will most likely have galvanized supply lines and lead DWV (drain,waste and vent). Like anything else they have issues mainly corrosion. I can go on and on but would highly recommend you get an inspection on a house like that. You may have to pay 4-500 for it but that is the best way to determine which route to take. Feel free to contact me for any opinions on the home. Good Luck!

Naomi Scarlett · Answer

Thanks for the help everyone.  Much appreciated.