This Victorian house was built into the side of a hill; with water pouring in through three of the four walls underground. The homeowners’ only choice was to dig out the floor – by removing 45cm of shale rock – and add a damp proof course
MARC WILSON
When renovating period properties, certain familiar problems and pitfalls crop up very regularly. Some are common to all building projects but others are specific to heritage houses. Most of these are caused by unfamiliarity or a lack of understanding of older structures, how they work and the legislation that protects them – all of which can be true of homeowners, designers and contractors. The overriding solution to these problems is to do your homework, plan carefully and take your time. Here are the basic principles you should embrace to enjoy a successful renovation.