Renovation work where to start?!

PrincesaGuerrera

Hi all
Ok I'm probably being really naive here, so here goes....
I bought my first flat about 3 years ago as I really wanted to get on the housing ladder but couldn't afford anything too fancy. The flat I bought is a 1930's ex council, stone build 6 in block (if that means anything to anyone).
When I in bought it the home report didn't point out any glaringly obvious work, it was just a bit shabby (but I could live with that). Anyway I have been thinking of starting to get it in order and the other day I pulled back some wall paper (about 3 layers!) that was coming loose on my bedroom wall underneath the window and was pretty horrified as all the plaster started crumbling off the wall. The plaster also looks a bit black so I guess there may be a damp issue too though it doesn't really feel damp. I want to get my double glazing replaced but I'm not sure if I should sort this out first or vice versa. To be honest I feel really out of my depth now and don't really know anyone who is their own place to give me advice
So could anyone give me advice about where to start?
The main thing I think I need is new double glazing, re plastering (though going off that idea now, lol), re wiring and decorating.

Thanks so much in advance

Davesnave

This is in Scotland, yes?

If it is, that would affect answers others might automatically give regarding freeholder permissions etc.

Wiring comes before plastering. Windows too.

moneyistooshorttomention

Damp can cause health issues and damage possessions.

So it's certainly logical to put wiring and windows high up the priority list.

To me - I'd get things clearer in mind re what the situation is regarding damp and be sure I knew the full facts before making definite decisions. So I'd find a damp specialist (ie a proper one - and not one determinedly out to make commission for themselves by selling you their product) and check out what they had to say about the situation.

You have your body for the rest of this life - but the flat is just where you happen to be living now for a few years (but probably not for the rest of your life) and so it would be my priority to ensure nothing could impact on my health for the rest of my life in your position (ie checking re damp).

Doozergirl

Which floor are you on? That's going to help with any diagnosis of dampness. Black is usually a sign of mould - condensation. If the plaster is blown then it could just be trapped, moist air. Vinyl wallpaper is often an issue as it traps moisture in an old wall and doesn't allow it to breathe.

Davesnave is correct in the order to do things. A rewire will destroy your plasterwork and the removal of windows can also pull it off the wall.

Replastering is an exceptionally messy job. It does sound like yours is old and has blown. If you knock around your walls, anything blown will sound hollow. The process of removing the blown areas will take more plaster with it that is about to go.

Anything loose will have to be knocked off the walls. That means everything out of the rooms, or ideally, everything out of the property. If it's bad, then I'd recommend removing and replacing (probably with new) the skirting and architraves as it's far simpler to work without them. You'll save in time what they cost.