If you've bought a renovator's delight that you are not planning to extend, these should be your priorities.
- Potentially dangerous problems: faulty electrical wiring, old or damaged gas appliances, unsafe structures (from staircases to garden walls), loose chimney pots or roof tiles, unstable masonry that could fall and cause injury.
- The exterior - if this isn't sound, any work you do inside is likely to be spoiled. Carry out repairs to: the roof, cracked or damaged masonry, damaged gutters and downpipes. Repoint brickwork if necessary. Repair damaged drainage systems. Replace or repair rotted window frames - now is the time to decide whether you would benefit from putting in double glazing.
- Problems that will get worse if left: rising or penetrating damp, dry rot, and woodworm.
- Installing new wiring and new plumbing while floorboards are up and before the walls and ceiling are replastered.
- Putting in a wired security system if you have decided to do this; it will be more expensive to do later.
- Roof insulation, one of the most cost-effective home improvements. Decide whether you need any sound insulation, perhaps against a party wall.
- Making good plaster and floors, which will be durable and provide a firm basis for any fixtures.
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