Maine and New Hampshire are filled with charming older homes that attract buyers with their unique character and historic appeal. But as any experienced real estate agent knows, these properties often come with hidden challenges that can turn into costly surprises if not addressed early.
As restoration professionals, we’ve seen it all — from water-damaged basements in century-old farmhouses to asbestos lurking in attic insulation. Whether you’re representing a seller or guiding a cautious buyer, understanding the hidden risks in older homes is essential to ensuring a safe and smooth transaction.
Common Hidden Issues in Older Homes (That Can Derail a Sale)
1. Water Damage Hiding in Plain Sight
Many older homes in Maine and New Hampshire suffer from chronic water intrusion issues. Poor drainage, aging roofs, and foundation cracks often result in water damage that isn’t always visible during a showing. Water stains on ceilings or in basements are red flags, but moisture trapped inside walls or under flooring can go unnoticed until a full inspection.
Why It Matters: Unaddressed water damage leads to rot, structural issues, and—more often than not—mold growth.
2. Mold in Attics, Basements, and Behind Walls
Mold thrives in the cold, damp environments common in older New England homes. Poor ventilation in attics, improperly vented bathrooms, or hidden leaks in basements create the perfect environment for mold colonies to grow. Even if you don’t see visible mold, musty odors are a sign that an inspection is warranted.
Pro Tip: Mold inspections can save deals. If you catch it early, professional remediation can be done before the property goes to closing.
3. Asbestos in Insulation, Flooring & Siding
Homes built before 1980 often contain asbestos in attic insulation (vermiculite), old vinyl floor tiles, pipe wrap, or even siding shingles. While undisturbed asbestos isn’t always hazardous, renovations or repairs that disturb these materials pose serious health risks.
For Agents: If asbestos is suspected, advise your clients to have a professional inspection done. Octagon can provide safe, certified asbestos removal to prevent delays in closing.
4. Lead Paint and Lead Dust Risks
Lead-based paint is another hidden hazard in homes built before 1978. Even if the home has been painted over, peeling layers or renovation work can expose toxic lead dust.
Did You Know? Sellers and landlords are legally required to disclose known lead-based paint hazards. A proactive lead assessment can provide peace of mind to both buyers and sellers.
FAQs: Common Questions Real Estate Agents Ask Us
Q: Will mold remediation delay a home sale?
A: Not if addressed promptly. Small to moderate mold jobs can often be completed within a few days. We also provide clearance documentation for peace of mind.
Q: Does a seller HAVE to remove asbestos before selling?
A: Asbestos removal isn’t legally required for a sale, but disclosure is. If a buyer plans renovations, abatement may be necessary. Early testing avoids surprises.
Q: Can water damage that isn’t visible still cause problems?
A: Absolutely. Moisture behind walls or under flooring can lead to structural damage and mold growth. Moisture mapping during inspections is key.
Why Real Estate Professionals Trust Octagon Cleaning & Restoration
At Octagon, we understand that time is of the essence during a real estate transaction. Our team of certified mold, water, and asbestos remediation specialists serve Maine and New Hampshire with fast response times, thorough documentation, and clear communication to keep deals moving forward.
We’re here to partner with you — whether it’s a pre-listing assessment or an emergency fix after an inspection surprise.
Need Help with a Problem Property?
Contact Octagon Cleaning & Restoration for professional remediation services that protect your clients, your reputation, and the success of your sale.
