Everything You Need to Know About Buying a Non-Standard Construction House

Purchasing a home is a big step, and if you’re exploring homes of non-standard construction, there are a few additional factors to consider. Non-standard construction properties don’t fit into the traditional categories of brick-and-mortar builds and often require extra diligence during the buying process. 

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to confidently buy a non-standard construction home, from identifying these properties to understanding insurance, maintenance, and survey needs.

What is a non-standard construction house? Non-standard construction refers to any house that isn’t built with standard brick or stone walls and a tile or slate roof. Common non-standard construction properties include being built from timber, concrete or steel. Properties built in the mid-20th century are more likely to feature non-standard construction methods

Read on to learn how to spot if your home is non-standard construction, and what this can mean for your mortgage, insurance and property maintenance. 

How to Identify a Non-Standard Construction Property

A non-standard construction property is essentially any home that isn’t built with standard brick or stone walls and a tile or slate roof. Common indicators of non-standard construction can include:

• Unusual materials such as timber, concrete, steel, or asbestos in the structure.
• Design features that deviate from typical housing, like prefabricated elements or flat roofs.
• Building era: Properties built in the mid-20th century are more likely to feature non-standard construction methods like concrete panelling or timber framing.

When viewing properties, ask the seller or agent directly about the construction type and review property details, as it’s crucial to know what materials and methods were used in the build.

Types of Non-Standard Construction Homes

Non-standard construction covers various building styles, each with unique characteristics and considerations. Here are a few common types:

1. Timber Frame Homes: Built with a wooden frame and sometimes infilled with brick, timber-frame homes are light and flexible. However, they require specific maintenance to prevent wood rot and pest issues.
2. Concrete-Panel Homes: Popular post-war solutions, concrete panel homes were initially built for quick, affordable housing. However, some are now prone to structural issues like spalling, where the concrete deteriorates, which can be costly to repair.
3. Steel-Frame Homes: These properties use steel frames in place of traditional wooden beams. While strong, steel-frame homes can suffer from rusting over time, particularly in humid areas or where moisture control isn’t adequately managed.
4. Prefabricated and Modular Homes: These homes are typically assembled off-site and then transported to the lot. Prefabs and modular homes are generally durable and eco-friendly but may face financing and insurance challenges.
5. Cob or Earth Homes: Constructed from natural materials like clay and straw, cob homes have a unique rustic charm and environmental benefits but often require specialized maintenance.
6. Historic and Heritage Properties: Older properties that feature uncommon materials, such as wattle and daub or thatch roofing, can be beautiful but may require significant upkeep and be difficult to insure.

The Importance of a Property Survey On a Non-Standard Construction Home

A detailed property survey is essential when buying a non-standard construction home. Unlike standard homes, non-standard constructions can have unique structural or material-specific issues that only a comprehensive survey can uncover. A building survey (sometimes known as a structural survey) provides an in-depth analysis of the property’s condition and will highlight specific issues related to the construction type, such as structural weaknesses, rot, or degradation of materials. Hiring a surveyor with experience in non-standard properties is crucial, as they’ll know what to look for and can provide advice on future maintenance or potential repair costs.

Key Considerations When Buying a Non-Standard Construction House

Buying a non-standard construction home requires a few extra considerations:

• Insurance: Insuring a non-standard property can be more challenging and costly. Some insurance companies may be hesitant to cover these properties due to perceived higher risks associated with their construction materials and potential for degradation.
• Financing: Mortgage lenders are typically cautious about non-standard constructions, and it may be harder to secure financing without a sizable deposit. Specialized lenders are often required, and they may impose stricter conditions.
• Maintenance Requirements: Non-standard homes may need frequent or specialized maintenance. For example, steel-frame homes can corrode, timber homes can rot, and concrete can spall over time.
• Resale Value: Consider how the property will hold its value over time, as non-standard construction homes can sometimes have limited buyer appeal. Unique, historic, or eco-friendly non-standard properties might attract niche buyers, while others could be harder to sell.

What Should I Look for in a Building Survey for a Non-Standard Construction Property?

A building survey for non-standard properties should focus on material-specific risks. For instance:

• Timber: Look for signs of rot, termites, or structural weakness.
• Concrete: Check for cracks, spalling, or signs of concrete cancer.
• Steel: Look for rust and assess moisture management in the property.
• Historic homes: Check for adherence to any local heritage preservation requirements, as these can affect allowable modifications or repairs.

The surveyor should provide guidance on future maintenance needs and any immediate repairs necessary.

Final Thoughts 

Non-standard construction properties can offer charm, uniqueness, and even eco-friendly advantages. However, they come with distinct requirements, and buyers must conduct due diligence on everything from structural integrity to insurance and financing options. By understanding what makes a property non-standard and seeking the right expert guidance, you can enjoy the unique appeal of these homes while navigating their specific challenges. Whether you’re drawn to the aesthetics of a timber-frame cottage or the durability of a steel-frame modular home, knowing what to expect will help you make a confident, informed purchase.

Non-standard homes, due to their complex nature and background, require a more in-depth survey than a homebuyer’s report or similar, so, we’d recommend choosing a Level 3/Listed Building Survey before going ahead with a purchase. Get in touch via our contact form, or use our interactive quiz for an instant quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Buying a Non-Standard Construction Home a Good Investment?

The investment value of a non-standard construction home depends on the specific property, location, and your goals. Unique properties, such as eco-friendly homes or historic constructions, may appeal to niche markets and could retain or even grow in value with proper care. However, some non-standard properties can depreciate faster or face a smaller buyer pool, which could impact resale. Consider potential maintenance costs and insurance premiums as part of your overall investment assessment.

Are Non-Standard Construction Houses Harder to Insure?

Yes, insuring non-standard construction homes can be challenging because many insurers see them as higher risk. Insurers might be concerned about the materials’ longevity and the potential costs of replacement or repair. However, specialist insurance providers can offer coverage tailored to non-standard properties. It’s wise to get insurance quotes early in the buying process to ensure you’re aware of potential costs.

What Are the Maintenance Requirements for Non-Standard Homes?

Maintenance requirements vary based on the materials and build type. Timber-frame homes may need regular pest inspections and treatments for wood rot, while steel-frame homes might require anti-rust treatments. Concrete and panel homes should be checked for cracks and spalling, which could indicate structural weakening. Maintaining the property well can improve both its lifespan and resale value.