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Chill in the Air: Navigating Winter Home Inspections with Ease
The winter season is almost here, ushering in the arrival of chilly temperatures and frozen precipitation. Weather changes caused by the changing seasons can impact the home selling process; one area notably affected is the home inspection.
Our real estate agents recommend a home inspection in most cases, even during the colder months. Here's what you should know about the effects of winter weather on home inspections.
- Accessing the Roof Might Be Unsafe
Some home inspectors will go onto the roof of a home to learn more about its condition. When snow or ice is covering the roof, it isn't safe for the inspector to access or walk on the roof. Snow can also cover problematic areas of the roof that are damaged or show their age. Instead, the inspector will clear snow from a small area of the roof to conduct a visual examination of its condition. If there are concerns about the roof, the inspector may request to return to re-examine the whole roof once the snow has melted. Since winter weather may require a home inspection to take place over multiple visits, it's best for potential buyers to schedule an inspection as soon as possible. This builds in time for any return visits so that the property's closing is less likely to be delayed.
- It's Tricky to Test the Home's AC
Depending on the temperature, a home inspector may be unable to run the home's AC system. Running the AC in cooler temperatures (usually 60 degrees Fahrenheit or colder) can damage the unit. Instead, the inspector will conduct a thorough visual inspection of the AC system's components to evaluate its current condition.
- Some of the Home's Exterior Surfaces May Be Covered
If the forecast calls for snow, even a light layer of precipitation can make it harder for a home inspector to examine a property's deck, patio, or concrete surfaces. The inspector can clear a small area to access all of the home's spaces better, or they can ask to return once the snow has melted if you have concerns about any surfaces covered by the snow.
- Winter Weather Makes It Easier to Test Some of a Home's Systems
Cold winter temperatures make it more convenient to examine some components of a home, like its insulation and heating systems. When the air outside is cold, it's a breeze to see if the home has any drafty spots or areas where the insulation isn't sufficient. The home inspector will be able to thoroughly test the ability of the home's heating system to reach and maintain a comfortable temperature. Since the heat will likely be running, the inspector can determine if there are any spots in the home that the system doesn't adequately heat. This will assist the inspector with providing potential reasons (like a drafty window or door) that certain rooms in a home are colder than expected.
While winter weather creates a few challenges during a home inspection, a home inspection is still an important part of the home-selling process. Make sure that your home is ready for the inspection by conducting regular maintenance and upkeep. Ready to list your home for sale? Contact us to get started.