Renovating an Older Property in Ashford: Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
Ashford has a wide mix of property styles — from Victorian terraces and 1930s semis to post-war homes and rural cottages. While older homes offer character and charm, they often come with hidden issues that only become obvious once renovation work begins.
If you’re planning to renovate an older property in Ashford, here are the most common problems to look out for, along with practical advice on how to avoid unexpected costs and delays.
1. Outdated or Unsafe Electrics
Many older homes in Ashford still have original wiring, dated fuse boxes, or inadequate earthing.
Common signs include:
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- Old consumer units without RCD protection
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- Cloth-covered or aluminium wiring
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- Limited plug sockets
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- Flickering lights or tripping circuits
How to avoid issues:
Before any project starts, book a full Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) so problems can be identified early.
2. Plumbing and Heating Problems
Older pipework, low water pressure and ageing boilers are common in pre-1980 properties.
Typical issues:
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- Old copper or steel pipes
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- Weak water pressure
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- Inefficient heating systems
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- Poor drainage or slow waste removal
How to avoid issues:
Budget for potential pipe upgrades or boiler replacement when planning kitchen or bathroom renovations.
3. Damp, Mould & Poor Ventilation
Damp is one of the most frequent problems in older Ashford homes, especially those with solid walls or poorly ventilated lofts.
Warning signs:
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- Peeling paint
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- Mold in corners or behind furniture
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- Musty smell
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- Salt deposits on walls
How to avoid issues:
Carry out a damp survey and improve ventilation before decorating or plastering.
4. Structural Concerns
Some older properties may show movement or wear over time.
Red flags include:
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- Cracks above doors or windows
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- Uneven floors
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- Rotten timber in floors or roofs
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- Weak supporting walls in previous DIY conversions
How to avoid issues:
A structural assessment or survey helps identify where reinforcement or repairs may be needed before building work starts.
5. Poor Insulation & Energy Efficiency
Older Ashford homes often struggle with heat loss, especially terraces and rural properties exposed to strong winds.
Common inefficiencies:
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- No loft insulation
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- Single-glazed windows
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- Uninsulated cavity walls
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- Cold draughts
How to avoid issues:
Plan insulation improvements alongside your renovation — it’s cheaper now than retrofitting later.
6. Planning Permission & Building Regulations
Depending on your renovation plans, you may need to consider:
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- Conservation rules (varies by area)
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- Structural changes (removing walls, chimney breasts, etc.)
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- Extensions or loft conversions requiring approval
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- Building control sign-off for electrical, plumbing or structural work
Working with a builder who understands Ashford’s local rules ensures your project stays compliant.
7. Hidden Costs in Older Homes
Older properties can hide unexpected problems that only appear during the renovation stage, such as:
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- Hidden leaks
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- Poor DIY work from previous owners
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- Rotten joists
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- Asbestos in ceilings or tiles
Tip: Always build a contingency budget of 10–20% to cover anything unforeseen.