Buying a 1970s House in Stevenage – Common Defects & Why a Survey Matters

Stevenage expanded rapidly during the 1960s and 1970s as part of the UK’s New Town development programme. As a result, a large proportion of the housing stock in the area dates from this period.

Many of these homes remain popular today due to their generous room sizes, practical layouts and well-established neighbourhoods. However, like any property approaching 60 years old, houses built during the 1970s can also have age-related defects and construction characteristics that buyers should understand before committing to purchase.

A professional RICS Home Survey can help identify potential issues early, allowing buyers to make informed decisions and avoid unexpected repair costs. Many buyers arranging a property survey in Stevenage choose to do so before exchange of contracts to ensure there are no unexpected defects.

Quick Answer: Should You Get a Survey on a 1970s House?

Yes. Properties built during the 1970s can have a range of age-related issues including ageing roof coverings or cavity wall insulation problems and outdated services.

Some estates were also constructed using system-built methods, which may require careful assessment by a surveyor.

A professional property survey helps identify these risks before purchase and provides clear advice on maintenance, repairs and potential further investigations.

Non-Traditional Construction (Including System-Built Houses)

One of the most important aspects of inspecting a 1970s property is identifying how the house was constructed.

While many houses from this era are traditional brick and block cavity construction, some developments used system-built construction methods, including forms of concrete construction.

These systems were widely used in post-war developments because they allowed homes to be built quickly and efficiently. However, different construction systems perform differently over time and some mortgage lenders have specific requirements when lending against non-traditional construction.

During a survey, the construction type is assessed by considering:

• External wall materials

• Wall thickness and construction layout

• Roof structure and design

• Internal layout and structural elements

• Visible indicators of system-built construction

  
  

Correctly identifying the construction method is essential because it can influence maintenance requirements, structural considerations and mortgage lending decisions.

Roof Coverings Approaching the End of Their Service Life

Many 1970s homes still retain their original roof coverings or early replacements.

Concrete roof tiles were commonly used during this period and can last several decades, but by now many roofs are approaching the end of their typical lifespan.

Common issues identified during surveys include:

• Weathered or deteriorating concrete tiles

• Moss growth and general wear

• Perished roofing felt beneath the tiles

• Defective flashings around chimneys and roof junctions

  
  

While these issues do not always require immediate replacement, they may indicate that future roof repairs or renewal will be required.

Cavity Wall Insulation and Damp Issues

Many houses built during this period have had retrospective cavity wall insulation installed over the years.

Although insulation can improve energy efficiency, poorly installed insulation or unsuitable materials can sometimes lead to moisture problems.

Potential issues may include:

• Moisture bridging across the cavity

• Damp patches internally

• Insulation materials settling or becoming saturated

  
  

A surveyor will look for signs of penetrating dampness, condensation risk and insulation defects when assessing the building envelope.

Ageing Electrical and Heating Systems

Even if a property has been cosmetically modernised, many 1970s homes still contain older service installations.

These may include:

• Electrical wiring approaching the end of its service life

• Older consumer units without modern safety devices

• Boilers nearing replacement age

• Limited insulation compared with modern standards

  
  

Because surveyors cannot carry out specialist testing, further inspection by qualified contractors is often recommended where the age or condition of services cannot be confirmed.

Why a Survey Is Particularly Important for 1970s Properties

Homes built in the 1970s can make excellent properties and many have already been upgraded or extended over the years. However, their age means that certain elements of the building may now require maintenance, repair or replacement.

A professional survey provides buyers with a clear understanding of:

• The overall condition of the property

• Any significant defects or risks

• Potential future repair costs

• Whether further specialist inspections are required

  
  

For many 1970s houses, a RICS Level 2 Home Survey is often suitable. However, where there are concerns about construction type, structural alterations or significant defects, a RICS Level 3 Building Survey may be more appropriate.

Surveyor’s Insight

As surveyors working across Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire, we regularly inspect properties built during the rapid expansion of towns such as Stevenage.

Many of these homes are structurally sound and provide excellent accommodation, but surveys frequently identify issues relating to ventilation, ageing roof coverings and historic alterations.

Identifying these issues early allows buyers to budget appropriately and avoid unexpected costs after purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions About 1970s Houses

Are 1970s houses well built?

Many houses built during the 1970s are solidly constructed and offer generous internal space. However, certain building elements such as roofing materials, insulation and services may now be reaching the end of their service life and should be assessed during a survey.

Do 1970s houses have cavity walls?

Yes. Most houses built during the 1970s have cavity wall construction. However, some estates used system-built construction methods, so confirming the construction type is an important part of the survey process.

Are 1970s houses prone to damp?

Not necessarily. However, dampness can sometimes occur due to factors such as retrofitted cavity wall insulation or defective rainwater goods.

What survey should I get for a 1970s house?

In many cases a RICS Home Survey Level 2 is suitable. However, if the property has unusual construction, significant alterations or visible defects, a RICS Level 3 Building Survey may be recommended.

Independent Survey Advice for Stevenage Buyers

If you are purchasing a property in Stevenage or the surrounding areas, obtaining professional advice before exchange of contracts can help ensure there are no costly surprises after you move in.

At JWA Surveyors, we provide RICS Home Surveys designed to give buyers a clear and unbiased understanding of the property they are purchasing.

Our surveys include:

• Detailed inspection of the property’s structure and condition

• Identification of defects and potential risks

• Practical advice on repairs and maintenance

• Clear explanations written in straightforward language

  
  

This ensures you can move forward with your purchase fully informed and confident in your decision.