5 Things to Look Out For When Buying an Older Home in Christchurch

Buying a home in Christchurch is exciting – whether it’s your first step on the property ladder or you’re upgrading to a family home. But older houses in Canterbury often come with hidden surprises, especially after the earthquakes and our region’s weather conditions.

While we always recommend booking a professional pre-purchase property inspection, there are a few key things you can check for yourself during open homes and private viewings. Spotting these early can save you stress (and budget) down the track.

Here are 5 things to look out for when buying an older home in Christchurch.

1. Cracks in Walls, Ceilings, or Foundations

Light, hairline cracks are often normal in older homes. But if you notice large, wide, or frequent cracking, especially around windows, ceilings, or the foundation, it could signal movement or moisture damage.

In Christchurch, it’s also important to confirm whether earthquake repairs have been completed to the foundation. Ask the agent or vendor for documentation, and make sure your inspector checks the structural integrity of the property.

2. Ground Clearance Around the House

The level of the ground around the home is more important than many buyers realise. Insufficient clearance can cause water to pool against the house, leading to rot, water ingress, or damage to cladding and framing.

Sometimes gardens or lawns have been built up too high against the house – a red flag for future flooding issues. If anything looks off, get your inspector to check the ground clearance levels and compare them with local building standards.

3. Hot Water Cylinder and Water Pressure

Hot water cylinders don’t last forever. Check:

• The age and capacity of the cylinder

• Signs of leaks around the base

• Water pressure when you turn on the taps

If the cylinder is older, you may need to budget for a replacement.

4. Mould and Draughts

A warm, dry home is essential – especially in Christchurch winters. During your viewing, look for:

• Mould on window sills, ceilings, or behind curtains

• Signs of water damage in bathrooms, particularly around the shower base

• Draughts from gaps in doors or windows

These issues are fixable but could affect your comfort (and power bills) if left unaddressed.

5. Ongoing Maintenance Requirements

Some building materials require regular upkeep – and it’s worth knowing this before you buy. For example:

• Certain roofing types need yearly cleaning

• Some claddings require re-sealing every few years

Ask the real estate agent for a maintenance schedule, or talk to your building inspector about what to expect. Knowing what’s ahead helps you plan your budget.

Bonus Tip: Review Earthquake Repair Documentation

If you’re looking at existing Christchurch property, always check earthquake repair records. You may also want to have the floor levels measured to ensure they meet MBIE guidelines. This is particularly important for resale value and long-term peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

All of the issues above can be fixed – but the key is being aware and prepared. Understanding what work might be required (and factoring it into your budget) means no nasty surprises after you’ve signed on the dotted line.

How Zen Builders Can Help

If you’re thinking about buying an older home in Christchurch, we can support you in three ways:

1. Renovation Advice – Planning to renovate? Book a no-obligation chat with us. We’ll listen to your ideas and talk through how we can help.

2. Pre-Purchase Inspections – We can organise a property inspection on your behalf and deliver a report within 48 hours.

3. Local Knowledge – Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more Christchurch home tips and guides.