The Impact of Winter on Home Inspections: What Buyers Should Know

By Phil Gear, Realtor

As the temperature drops in Winnipeg, home inspections become a crucial step for buyers looking to purchase a home in the late fall or winter. While inspections are essential year-round, the colder months can add unique challenges to the process. Here's what buyers should keep in mind when navigating home inspections during the winter.

1. Limited Access to the Roof and Exterior

One of the biggest obstacles in winter home inspections is the condition of the roof and exterior. Snow and ice can cover important parts of a home, such as shingles, gutters, and siding. This can make it difficult for inspectors to assess the roof's condition or identify potential issues like missing shingles, ice dams, or blocked gutters.

What to watch for:
Ask your inspector if they have tools like drones to examine the roof remotely. 

2. Foundation and Drainage Concerns

Winnipeg winters can be harsh, with freezing and thawing cycles that affect the foundation and drainage systems of homes. Snow accumulation around the foundation may obscure cracks or signs of settling. Additionally, frozen ground can make it harder to assess grading and drainage issues that could lead to water pooling around the house once everything starts to thaw.

What to watch for:
If possible, review any recent photos or maintenance records from the seller that can offer insights into the foundation and yard's condition in the warmer months. A home that has poor drainage in the spring may not show obvious signs in the winter.

3. Heating Systems

Winter is actually an ideal time to test the home’s heating systems. A properly functioning furnace, HVAC, or boiler is critical during Winnipeg’s frigid months. Inspectors will be able to evaluate whether these systems are working efficiently and up-to-code. They can also check insulation levels and how well the home retains heat, which can be less apparent during warmer months.

What to watch for:
Ensure the inspector thoroughly checks all heating systems, including the thermostat, vents, and ducts, for any signs of inefficiency. If you’re buying an older home, ask if the insulation meets modern standards to avoid high heating bills.

4. Frozen Pipes and Plumbing

Cold weather can affect plumbing systems, especially if the home has not been properly winterized. Frozen pipes are a common problem, and burst pipes can cause significant water damage. During winter inspections, your inspector will check for signs of freezing in both interior and exterior plumbing.

What to watch for:
Make sure the inspector checks for proper pipe insulation, especially in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages. Ask the seller if the home has had any past issues with frozen pipes.

5. Windows, Doors, and Air Leaks

Cold temperatures make it easier to detect drafts and air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings. These leaks can lead to heat loss and increased energy bills. Winter inspections give a clearer picture of how well-sealed the home is.

What to watch for:
During the inspection, take note of any drafts near windows or doors. If your inspector finds significant air leaks, you may want to negotiate with the seller to repair these issues or provide a price adjustment to cover energy-efficient upgrades.

6. Landscaping and Outdoor Features

Snow can cover landscaping features like patios, decks, fences, and driveways, making it harder for the inspector to evaluate their condition. These areas could have cracks, damage, or wear and tear that might not be visible during a winter inspection.

What to watch for:
If outdoor features are important to you, ask the seller for photos or documentation from warmer months. This can help you understand the condition of patios, driveways, and any other landscaping that may be hidden beneath the snow.

The Pros and Cons of Winter Inspections

While winter presents some challenges for home inspections, it also offers the advantage of seeing how a house handles Winnipeg’s harsh weather conditions. By focusing on heating systems, insulation, plumbing, and detecting drafts, buyers can gain a better understanding of how the home will perform during the coldest months of the year.

However, it’s essential to recognize that some issues, like roof damage or drainage problems, may only become apparent once the snow melts. 

Ultimately, working with a knowledgeable inspector who understands the challenges of winter inspections can help you make an informed decision and ensure that your future home is ready for Winnipeg's tough winters.

If you’re looking for recommendations for a solid home inspector or are thinking of buying, give me a call at 431-792-2773.