Winter Home Inspections: What Houston Homeowners Should Check Before the New Year

As the year winds down and cooler weather settles over Houston, it’s easy to shift your focus toward holidays, travel plans, and a much-needed break. But before the calendar flips to January, there’s one more gift you can give yourself: peace of mind about your home.

Winter brings its own set of challenges — some of them visible, others not so obvious. Taking a little time now to check your home’s systems and structure can help prevent small issues from turning into bigger problems down the line.

Here’s a simple winter-ready checklist to guide you through the most important areas.

1. Roof and Gutters

After fall leaves and early winter rains, your roof and gutters deserve a closer look. Clear out debris to prevent clogs, and check for missing shingles or flashing. Overflowing gutters can lead to foundation problems, and roof leaks often go unnoticed until major damage occurs.

2. Windows and Doors

Cold air sneaks in through worn weather stripping and unsealed gaps. Walk your home and check for drafts — especially around older windows and entry doors. Replacing weather stripping is a simple, affordable way to improve comfort and energy efficiency all winter long.

3. Attic and Insulation

Houston winters may be short, but inadequate insulation can make your home feel colder than it should. A quick check of the attic for missing or compressed insulation can make a noticeable difference — and help your heating system work more efficiently.

4. Plumbing Precautions

Even in Houston, a few nights of below-freezing temperatures can put your pipes at risk. Make sure any exposed plumbing — especially in attics, garages, or exterior walls — is properly insulated. Disconnect garden hoses and protect outdoor spigots with foam covers.

5. Exterior Walls and Siding

Look for signs of water damage, cracks, or mildew on your home’s exterior. Winter storms and cold snaps can worsen existing vulnerabilities. Catching them early gives you the chance to schedule repairs before they turn into major problems.

6. Heating System Health

If you haven’t already had your HVAC system serviced, now is a good time to make sure it’s running safely and efficiently. Replace filters, test your thermostat, and listen for any unusual noises or odors when your system runs.

7. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

This time of year means more time indoors — and more reliance on heaters, fireplaces, and holiday lights. Test your smoke and CO detectors, replace batteries if needed, and make sure you have detectors installed in key areas throughout your home.

Final Thoughts

A simple walk-through now can help you catch small issues before they become big ones — saving you stress, time, and money in the months ahead.

At Fox Inspection Group, we believe the best homes are well-cared for year-round. Whether you're wrapping up the year with a DIY home check or planning ahead for a full inspection in the new year, we’re here when you need us.