Winter is coming!

Winter’s Hidden Home Risks: Don’t Let the Cold Catch You Off Guard

When the temperature drops, our homes work overtime — furnaces hum, insulation gets tested, fireplaces get turned on or lit up, debris in our gutters freezes, and moisture finds every possible path inside. For homeowners, buyers, and real estate professionals, winter brings a unique set of inspection challenges that can make or break a deal.

At TRUSTED Home Inspection Pros, I see it every year: issues that hide in plain sight all summer long suddenly show up once the snow starts flying. Here’s what you should know.

🔍 Common Cold-Weather Problems that I Find

1. Ice dams and roof leaks
When attic insulation is uneven or ventilation is poor, warm air escapes and melts snow on the roof. That meltwater refreezes at the eaves, creating “ice dams” that can force water back under shingles and into the ceiling or walls.

2. Frozen or burst pipes
Uninsulated plumbing in exterior walls or crawlspaces is vulnerable when the temperature dips. Even a small crack can lead to thousands of dollars in damage. And don't forget to shut-off the valve to your outdoor hose bibb!

3. Inefficient heating systems
Furnaces working at full capacity expose hidden problems — worn blower motors, blocked filters, or unsafe carbon monoxide leaks that only appear under stress.

4. Poor insulation and air leaks
Infrared scans often reveal cold spots where insulation has settled or been missed entirely. Drafts don’t just make homes uncomfortable — they drive up heating bills and reduce resale appeal.

5. Foundation and grading issues
Repeated freeze-thaw cycles can worsen small cracks or improper grading, leading to basement seepage when spring melt arrives.

For Sellers & Agents: Be Proactive

Winter is no time for surprises. A pre-listing inspection in cold weather can prevent last-minute renegotiations and build confidence in your listing.

Encourage sellers to:

• Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice buildup.

• Check attic insulation depth and ventilation.

• Have the furnace serviced before showings begin.

• Insulate any exposed plumbing, especially in garages or crawlspaces.

A clean inspection report doesn’t just protect the deal, it reinforces your professionalism and your client’s peace of mind.

For Buyers: Know What You’re Getting Into

A home that “looks fine” in winter may still hide seasonal problems. During a TRUSTED inspection, we use moisture meters, infrared imaging, and proven testing protocols to identify risks even when they’re not visible. 

Understanding these issues upfront lets buyers negotiate repairs or plan their maintenance schedule intelligently.

Michael’s Pro Tip

“Winter inspections can reveal how well a home really performs under stress. When systems are working their hardest, it’s the best time to see how they hold up.”

Ready for Winter?

Whether you’re preparing a listing, purchasing a home, or just want to protect your investment, a professional winter inspection can save you time, money, and stress come spring.

Book your seasonal inspection now!

#TrustedHomeInspectionPros  #TRUSTED  🏡 🔍 👍