Finding out the history of your house can be fascinating. Most houses have been added to and changed over the years, and few houses retain all their original features. Discovering the history of your house can also provide an insight into the lives of the owners. When looking at the different evidence for the age of your house, don't take everything on face value. Georgian windows may have been replaced by Victorian ones, a new facade may have been added, and even dates inscribed in stone on the house may not be original.
Look at all the evidence and balance out different aspects to find a likely date for your house.
Title DeedsThe first stop to find out the age of your house is probably to look at the title deeds. If you have a mortgage then these will normally be held by your mortgage provider or bank,who may make a charge for letting you see them!
MapsVery often old maps can give you some clue as the age of your house. Nineteenth Century Ordnance Survey Maps can be viewed at Old Maps.
You can also visit your local library or local records office for local old maps.
Ask your Neighbours It's always possible that your neighbours may have some helpful information, particularly if the style of their house is the same as yours. Sometimes even the names of local roads can help if they were named after significant historical or local events or people.
Architectural Styles, Building Technigues and Materials All of these can be relevant. Whether the building has casement or sash windows, whether or not it has a damp proof course, whether it has been plastered with gypsum or lime can all give an indication of age.
Census Records & Directories Some census records and local Kelly's directories are available online. These may be particularly helpful if your house was used to run a business or was owned by someone of local importance. They may also be available at your local library. More on Censuses and Directories
