Winter brings a unique set of challenges for residential surveyors. From unpredictable weather to daylight constraints, surveyors need to be well-prepared to ensure accurate assessments. Here’s a guide with practical advice for surveyors to make winter home surveys as efficient, accurate, and safe as possible.
Winter days are short, so maximizing daylight is essential. Start surveys as early as possible to ensure you have adequate light, especially for outdoor inspections. Limited natural light can impact visibility, making it harder to identify issues like cracks or leaks in foundations or walls.
Tip: Invest in a high-quality flashlight or headlamp for any parts of the survey that may extend beyond daylight. These are also helpful when examining basements, attics, or other poorly lit areas.
Surveyors are often required to navigate around roofs, decks, stairs, and driveways—all areas prone to ice buildup. Slips and falls are common in winter, and icy conditions can quickly turn a routine survey into a hazardous task.
Tip: Wear non-slip, insulated boots to maintain traction, and take caution when stepping on potentially icy surfaces. Consider carrying a small bag of salt or sand to improve traction on particularly slippery areas.
Cold weather can help identify heating and insulation issues that might not be evident in warmer months. Look out for drafty windows, inefficient heating systems, or cold spots in walls and floors, which may indicate inadequate insulation.
Tip: Use a thermal imaging camera to spot any “cold leaks” in walls, doors, or windows. This technology is incredibly helpful for pinpointing energy inefficiencies that homeowners may want to address.
Winter weather can worsen moisture issues, especially in basements, attics, and poorly ventilated rooms. Condensation, ice dams, and leaks can cause damage that may go unnoticed in drier seasons.
Tip: Look closely for signs of moisture build-up, like damp patches, mold, or mildew. Roofs are particularly vulnerable in winter; inspect gutters and eaves for ice dams or pooling water, which can lead to leaks or structural damage.
Roofs bear a heavy load in the winter months, particularly in regions with significant snowfall. Snow accumulation can cause stress on roofs, especially if the structure is older or hasn’t been regularly maintained.
Tip: Pay attention to signs of sagging or damaged shingles, which could indicate underlying issues. A thermal camera can also help detect any heat loss through the roof, which may point to insulation problems. Note: If roof access is risky due to snow or ice, consider rescheduling the survey rather than risking safety.
Frozen ground can reveal drainage problems that are harder to detect in warmer seasons. Poor drainage can lead to water pooling around the foundation, which is especially problematic when snow melts in late winter and early spring.
Tip: Look for signs of water pooling around the property, especially near the foundation. Winter surveys are a good opportunity to advise homeowners on proper drainage solutions, like extending downspouts away from the house or grading the land to prevent future water buildup.
Spending time outdoors in cold weather can be taxing, so it’s essential to stay warm and dry to work effectively. Make sure to wear a warm, waterproof coat, insulated gloves, and a hat. Having the right gear can make a significant difference in comfort and productivity.
Tip: Hand warmers and thermal layers can help keep you warm if you’re spending extended time outside. Bring a thermos with a hot beverage to stay warm and hydrated.
Winter can make some areas of a property harder to reach or inspect. Consider using drones to capture aerial images of the roof and other exterior areas. This can help you get a clear view without needing to navigate snow-covered or icy sections.
Tip: If you’re using a drone, be mindful of battery life, as cold temperatures can drain batteries faster. Carry an extra battery, and keep them warm before use to ensure optimal performance.
Freezing temperatures can impact the condition of building materials, causing them to expand, contract, or become brittle. This can make it harder to accurately assess the condition of some materials, especially wood and masonry.
Tip: When looking at wood exteriors or window frames, check for signs of cracking, splitting, or warping that may not be visible in warmer weather. Concrete and masonry surfaces can also be affected by freeze-thaw cycles, so look for cracks that might indicate structural issues.
Winter surveys may uncover issues that aren’t as apparent in other seasons, which can sometimes be a surprise for clients. Explain your findings clearly, especially when discussing seasonal issues like drafty windows or frozen drainage areas.
Tip: Educate clients on how certain issues are exacerbated by winter weather and which ones may need immediate attention versus long-term monitoring. This can help them make informed decisions about repairs and maintenance.
Winter surveys offer unique insights into a property’s vulnerabilities but also come with challenges that require extra preparation. By planning for shorter days, dressing appropriately, and using the right tools and technologies, surveyors can ensure that winter home surveys are accurate, safe, and valuable for homeowners.
This article was writen by Rhodri Mcatee from Scafol. You can read more articles from Scafol here.
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