Housing

Age of Housing

Housing

AGE OF HOUSING

Older Home, Grafton
Older Home, Grafton

Almost one-third of the region’s housing was constructed prior to 1940, as can be seen in the chart below. While older housing units can add to the historic character of a community, they also can present a challenge to property owners. Common problems in older housing include out dated electrical wiring, poor energy efficiency, aging septic systems, and the possibility of lead-based paint, a health issue particularly in homes with small children.  Additionally, potential home-buyers may be wary of purchasing a home requiring significant investment in cosmetic and system upgrades.

 

NUMBER OF HOUSING UNITS BY YEAR STRUCTURE BUILT
WINDHAM REGION

NUMBER OF HOUSING UNITS BY YEAR STRUCTURE BUILT WINDHAM REGION
                   Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2017-2021 5-year Estimates

The age of the housing supply in the region also means that many existing structures were built without a building code in place. Therefore, ensuring safe housing in the Windham Region includes making life safety improvements where necessary. These improvements include ensuring appropriate egress, fire and smoke separation, fire and smoke detection, and fire suppression systems. Encouraging these systems is a way to save lives and structures, especially historic landmarks.