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Common Winter Property Issues: Surveying a property

Nick Cobb • March 14, 2025

Protect Your Home This Winter by Spotting Problems Early

Winter can be hard on properties. Between the cold, damp weather and the extra strain on heating systems, it is the season where small issues can quickly turn into big problems. Whether you are maintaining your current home or thinking about buying a new one, a winter building survey can be a useful exercise to identify potential issues with the property. At Nick Cobb Surveyors, we have seen first-hand how identifying issues early can save property owners a lot of stress and expense. In this blog, we consider some of the most common winter property problems we look for—and what they mean for your home.

Condensation and Damp

Condensation is a classic winter headache. With the heating on and windows shut, all that moisture in the air has to go somewhere—and it often ends up on walls, windows, or ceilings. While it might start as a bit of mist on the windows, it can quickly lead to damp patches and mould if left unchecked.

Inspection of properties during the winter can highlight issues such as:

Water droplets on windows or walls
Dark patches on walls, ceilings, or near windowsills
That tell-tale musty smell of hidden damp

Sometimes, condensation points to poor ventilation. However, it can also reveal bigger problems such as inadequate insulation or cold spots in the building’s structure. A survey helps to uncover the underlying cause, enabling you to address the problem.

Roof Damage

Winter weather—especially heavy rain and strong winds—can really test your roof. If there is even a small weakness, like a missing tile or cracked flashing, water will find a way in. Unfortunately, roof issues are not always obvious until the damage is done.

A survey typically includes the following checks:

Are there any missing, broken, or slipped roof tiles?
Are gutters and downpipes working properly, or are they blocked and causing water to pool?
Is there evidence of leaks in the loft, like damp insulation or water stains?

Spotting these issues early can save you from bigger problems later, like structural damage or rot.

Heating System Problems

During winter, the heating system is heavily relied upon—until it stops working. A breakdown when temperatures drop can make life miserable, and repairs can be costly.

Whilst we are not heating engineers, a building survey can still highlight potential issues, including:

Corroded or leaking radiators and pipework
Uneven heating throughout the property, which can point to blockages or inefficiencies
Boilers or flues that are not ventilated properly (a crucial safety check)

If there is anything we think needs attention, we always recommend calling in a specialist to make sure your heating system is safe and running smoothly.

Why a Winter Survey Matters

Winter is when property issues are at their most obvious. Damp patches, leaks, and heating problems are much easier to spot when the weather’s putting everything to the test. If you are buying a home, a winter survey can help you avoid nasty surprises later. And if you already own, it is a great way to tackle any issues before they escalate.

Get Peace of Mind This Winter

At Nick Cobb Surveyors, we specialise in uncovering the issues that matter, so you can make informed decisions about your property. If you are concerned about winter property problems or planning to move, let us help.

Visit www.nickcobbsurveyors.co.uk to learn more or book your winter property survey today. Don’t let the season catch you out—protect your home and your peace of mind.