Home renovations often lead to unexpected surprises. At Home Owners Association, we’ve seen our fair share of weird things found during home renovations.

From hidden treasures to historical secrets and structural challenges, these discoveries can turn a simple remodel into an exciting adventure.

In this post, we’ll explore some of the most intriguing finds homeowners have encountered while updating their living spaces.

What Lies Behind Your Walls?

Home renovations often reveal more than just outdated wiring or insulation. The process of updating living spaces can uncover fascinating historical artifacts and unexpected treasures.

Unearthing Rare Coins and Currency

One of the most thrilling discoveries during renovations is the finding of rare coins or old currency. In a recent project in Melbourne’s inner suburbs, a homeowner uncovered a stash of pre-decimal Australian coins (dating back to the 1930s). It is believed that only about 1,500 such 1930 Australian pennies were put into circulation during the Great Depression. These finds can be valuable not just monetarily, but also as pieces of local history. If you renovate an older home, you should look for loose floorboards or gaps in walls where previous occupants might have hidden their savings.

Revealing Antique Documents and Letters

Old documents and letters offer a unique glimpse into the past. During a kitchen renovation in a Victorian-era home in Melbourne, workers found a bundle of love letters from World War II tucked away in a wall cavity. These personal artifacts can provide invaluable insights into the lives of previous occupants and the broader historical context of your property. You should carefully inspect any old wallpaper or paneling before removal – you never know what might hide underneath.

Discovering Vintage Toys and Collectibles

Vintage toys and collectibles are another common find during renovations. A recent story shared by a Melbourne homeowner involved finding a collection of 1960s Matchbox cars in pristine condition, hidden in the attic of their Fitzroy home. These items can often fetch a high price from collectors, but many homeowners choose to keep them as unique decorative pieces. When you renovate older homes, you should thoroughly check attic spaces and under floorboards for these potential treasures.

Documenting Your Discoveries

If you make any significant discoveries during your renovation, it’s important to document them properly. You should take photos and, if possible, research the items to understand their historical and potential monetary value. In some cases (particularly if you find items of significant historical importance), you may want to consider donating them to local museums or historical societies.

Working with Experienced Professionals

Experienced professionals understand the unique challenges and potential surprises of renovating older Melbourne homes. A network of trusted contractors can help handle unexpected discoveries while ensuring your renovation project stays on track. Their expertise can turn your renovation into an exciting journey through your home’s hidden history.

As we move from the excitement of hidden treasures to the broader historical context of your home, let’s explore how renovations can uncover the secrets of your property’s past.

Unveiling Your Home’s Hidden Past

Renovations often reveal more than just outdated fixtures; they can uncover fascinating historical secrets about your property. Many Melbourne homeowners have stumbled upon original architectural features, time capsules, and evidence of historical events during their renovations.

Rediscovering Original Architectural Features

Many older homes in Melbourne hide beautiful original features behind layers of modern updates. Victorian-era houses in Melbourne often feature distinctive architectural elements, including ornate ceiling roses and cornices. These architectural elements can add significant character and value to your home. When you renovate, carefully remove modern additions to check for hidden period features. You might find original fireplaces, hardwood floors, or even stained glass windows.

Unearthing Time Capsules

Time capsules left by previous owners are rare but exciting finds. In a 2022 renovation of a 1950s home in Toorak, homeowners discovered a metal box containing newspapers, coins, and family photos from the original owners. These capsules offer a unique glimpse into your home’s history. During renovations, pay close attention to cornerstone areas, wall cavities, and beneath floorboards (where time capsules are often hidden).

Traces of Historical Events

Your home may hold evidence of significant historical events. The restoration of a 19th-century terrace house in Carlton revealed World War II ration books and air raid shelter plans in the attic. Immersive technologies are now being used to augment existing exhibits in traditional museums, increasing engagement with historical artifacts. When you renovate older properties, carefully inspect attics, basements, and other less-used areas for historical artifacts.

If you uncover any historically significant items or features during your renovation, contact Heritage Victoria for advice on preservation and documentation. They can provide guidance on how to incorporate these elements into your renovation plans while maintaining their historical integrity.

Uncovering these historical secrets can add depth and character to your home, but it may also impact your renovation timeline and budget. Work with experienced contractors who understand the unique challenges of renovating older Melbourne homes. They can help you navigate unexpected discoveries while ensuring your renovation project stays on track.

As exciting as these historical finds can be, they represent just one aspect of the surprises that await during renovations. The next chapter will explore some of the structural challenges you might encounter when updating your home (which can be equally surprising and impactful).

What Lurks Behind Your Walls

Renovations often reveal more than just outdated decor. Structural surprises can turn a simple remodel into a complex project. These hidden issues can significantly impact your renovation timeline and budget, but addressing them is essential for the safety and integrity of your home.

Unexpected Room Additions

One of the most common surprises during renovations is the discovery of undocumented room additions. In a recent project in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, homeowners uncovered a hidden attic space that had been sealed off for decades. These unexpected finds can excite, but they often come with challenges. Undocumented additions may not meet current building codes or safety standards.

If you discover an unexpected room or space during your renovation, you need to have it professionally assessed. A structural engineer can determine if the addition is safe and up to code. In Melbourne, you’ll need to contact your local council to ensure the space is properly documented and meets all legal requirements. This process might involve retroactive permits and potential modifications to bring the space up to current standards.

Electrical Nightmares

Outdated or unsafe wiring is another common issue in older Melbourne homes. Energy Safe Victoria recommends that homes built before 1980 be inspected to ensure the cabling is safe and in good condition. During a recent renovation in Fitzroy, homeowners discovered knob-and-tube wiring, which is now considered outdated and unsafe for homes and families.

If you’re renovating an older home, you need to have a licensed electrician inspect your electrical system. They can identify potential hazards and recommend necessary upgrades. Updating your electrical system not only improves safety but can also increase your home’s energy efficiency. Try installing modern circuit breakers, GFCI outlets in wet areas, and upgrading to a higher amperage service if needed.

Hidden Water Damage and Mold

Water damage and mold are silent destroyers that often lurk behind walls and under floors. In a recent renovation project in St Kilda, homeowners were shocked to find extensive mold growth behind seemingly pristine walls. This discovery led to a significant increase in the project scope and budget.

To avoid nasty surprises, look for signs of water damage before starting your renovation. These can include discolored walls or ceilings, musty odors, or warped flooring. If you suspect water damage or mold, have a professional inspection done before proceeding with your renovation plans. Addressing these issues early can prevent more extensive damage and health risks down the line.

Working with experienced contractors who understand the unique challenges of renovating Melbourne homes can help you navigate these structural surprises while keeping your project on track. While these discoveries can frustrate, addressing them properly ensures the long-term safety and value of your home.

Final Thoughts

Home renovations often reveal unexpected discoveries, transforming routine projects into exciting adventures. Weird things found during home renovations can range from rare coins and vintage toys to hidden rooms and historical artifacts. These findings can significantly impact renovation plans, affecting timelines, budgets, and project scopes.

Professional assistance proves invaluable when dealing with unexpected discoveries during renovations. Experienced contractors, structural engineers, and preservation specialists offer crucial insights and ensure proper handling of any findings. They help navigate the complexities of integrating historical features or addressing safety concerns with outdated systems.

At Home Owners Association, we understand the unique challenges of renovating homes in Melbourne. Our network of trusted professionals can guide you through the process, helping you make informed decisions about your unexpected discoveries. We support you every step of the way, whether you uncover hidden treasures or face unforeseen structural issues (which can be equally surprising and impactful).