Building inspection during the winter

 Several clients ask us if we are in a position to inspect buildings during winters. Well, the answer is yes.

Extreme weather, especially winters are detrimental to buildings equally due to the low temperatures prevalent in Brampton and the fact that some parts of the buildings may not be visible due to snow and ice. The majority of components that escape notice are the building foundation, the roof the window frames especially those located at the basement levels. 

                           

Certain areas such as the underside of balconies may only be partially accessible due to openings stuck in snow or ice, thus making inspection very difficult. Being one of the leading home inspection companies in Brampton and providers of home inspection services in Mississauga, we make it a point to mention this aspect to the customer at the time of our inspection, and the home inspectors record in their inspection report the components most likely to be completely or partially not visible. 

 

As a part of the process, we seriously analyze the seller's declaration to verify whether one of the non-visible components has been subject to restoration or repair or is non-functional in whole or in part. The highlight of our inspection includes taking into account the age of these components to determine serious risks to the building. As a part of our inspection report, we also recommend if the non-visible components need to be inspected as soon as possible before finalizing the home inspection cost. The buyers are also provided the option of adding a clause to the promise to purchase in relation to the components not visible and not inspected during the inspection of their desired building. 

 

 For any further questions related to the subject, buyers are encouraged to contact us.

Checklist: preparing for winters 

list of important aspects to be borne in mind for preparing the household for winters are: -

1.      Ensure that sealant around all the doors and windows is in prime condition

2.      Thorough Inspection of weatherstrips on doors and windows.

3.       Storing screens to prevent condensation from forming on windows.

4.      Cleaning window copings of any debris.

5.      Storing garden hoses to avoid breakage. It is wise to purge plumbing if necessary.

6.      Inspecting roof surfaces to ensure that roof material is in good condition.

7.      Inspecting the attic to make sure that nothing suspicious is left there.

8.      Clean the gutters.

9.      Have the chimneys swept.

10.   Cleaning air exchanger.

11.  Replacing furnace air filters.

12.  Preparing the humidifier to ensure indoor humidity level between 30 and 50%.

13.   Change and priming the batteries of smoke alarms/carbon monoxide detectors.

 The most important fact to note is that expert advice is available at all times. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to call us!