Blog - HTown Home Inspections

Hidden Home Issues After Winter And How To Spot Them

February 27, 2026 No Comments

The Top Hidden Issues That Show Up After Winter (And How To Spot Them Early) Winter can be harsh on a home, even when there’s no noticeable damage. Cold temperatures, snow, ice, and fluctuating weather conditions often create problems that remain hidden until warmer months arrive. By the time homeowners notice a problem, minor issues may have already escalated into costly repairs. Understanding the most common hidden home issues after winter can help you take action early and protect your investment. Why Winter Causes Hidden Home Damage Cold weather creates stress throughout a home. As materials expand and contract during freeze–thaw cycles, small gaps and cracks can form. Moisture from snow and ice can then migrate into areas it shouldn’t be. Because many of these issues

Inspector examining electrical panel wiring.

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist To Protect Your Home

February 13, 2026 No Comments

Published: February 2026 Home Maintenance Checklist: Protect Your Home Before Spring Arrives Winter can be harsh on your home. Freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and heavy winds often cause hidden damage that doesn’t become obvious until spring. That’s why following a home maintenance checklist for spring is one of the most innovative ways to protect your property and avoid costly repairs later in the year. Spring is the ideal time to spot issues early, make preventative fixes, and prepare your home for warmer weather ahead. Why Spring Home Maintenance Matters More Than You Think Cold weather puts stress on nearly every part of a home. Roofing materials expand and contract, moisture seeps into small cracks, and drainage systems can become clogged or damaged. If these problems aren’t addressed early,

Key inserted in a front door lock with the door slightly open.

New Homeowner Checklist: 10 Essential Steps After Moving In

January 19, 2026 No Comments

Published: Jan 2026 New Homeowner Checklist — 10 Important Things To Do Right After Moving In Moving into a new home is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. Between unpacking boxes and settling in, it’s easy to overlook a few critical tasks that protect your investment and keep your home safe. Before you get too comfortable, take a moment to go through this New Homeowner Checklist. These 10 simple steps will help you secure your property, prevent future headaches, and start your new chapter with confidence. 1. Change Or Rekey All Exterior Door Locks You never know who might still have a key to your new home — the previous owners, contractors, or neighbors. Rekeying or replacing all exterior locks gives you complete control over who

Hand tightening a water heater connection with a wrench.

When To Replace Your Water Heater | Home Inspector Tips

January 5, 2026 No Comments

Published: January 2026 When Should You Replace Your Water Heater? A Homeowner’s Guide Your water heater is an essential appliance in your home, providing hot water for showers, laundry, and dishwashing. However, like all appliances, it won’t last forever. Over time, water heaters can lose efficiency, suffer from wear and tear, and ultimately fail. Understanding when to replace your water heater is crucial for maintaining comfort and avoiding costly repairs. In this guide, we’ll explore the signs that may indicate it’s time for a replacement, helping you make an informed decision for your home. Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Water Heater 1. Age Of The Water Heater The first factor to consider is the age of your water heater. Most traditional tank water heaters last

Technician servicing an outdoor HVAC unit.

Preparing Your Home For The New Year: Essential Maintenance Tasks

December 19, 2025 No Comments

Published: December 2025 Start The Year With A Safe, Efficient, And Well-Maintained Home As one year ends and another begins, homeowners everywhere are thinking about fresh starts — and that includes taking better care of their homes. The new year is the perfect time to inspect, repair, and plan improvements that keep your property safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient. Whether you’re reviewing your HVAC system, checking your roof for wear, or setting goals for future upgrades, starting the year with a solid maintenance plan saves time and money down the road. A professional home inspector can help identify hidden issues before they become major repairs, ensuring your home starts the new year strong. Why New Year Home Maintenance Matters Just as annual doctor checkups benefit people, homes

Hands installing weatherstripping on a sliding door.

Winter Home Emergency Preparedness Tips

December 5, 2025 No Comments

Published: December 2025 Stay Safe And Warm This Winter With Smart Home Preparation Winter storms can strike unexpectedly, leaving homeowners without power, heat, or access to essential supplies. Preparing your home before extreme cold and snow arrive is one of the most important steps you can take to keep your family safe and comfortable. As trusted home inspectors, we often see preventable damage during winter — from burst pipes and roof leaks to unsafe heating systems. Preparing early helps you avoid costly repairs and ensures your home is ready for whatever Mother Nature brings. Why Winter Emergency Preparedness Matters Winter weather can cause more than just inconvenience. Ice, freezing temperatures, and heavy snow can lead to: – Frozen or burst water pipes – Roof and gutter

A carbon monoxide alarm on the ceiling with a green indicator light

Test Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors This Winter – Home Safety Tips

November 21, 2025 No Comments

As winter approaches, testing your carbon monoxide detectors is crucial for safety. With increased use of heating devices, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning rises. Ensuring your detectors work properly can save lives by providing early warnings. Home inspections offer the perfect opportunity to check heating systems and CO detectors, helping to keep your home safe this winter.

Woman smiling while whisking ingredients in a bowl in a bright kitchen.

Thanksgiving Safety Tips For Homeowners | Home Inspections

November 7, 2025 No Comments

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and gratitude—but safety should come first. From kitchen fires to winter weather prep, a few simple steps can keep your home safe this season. A professional home inspection can uncover hidden hazards and ensure your systems are ready for the holidays, giving you peace of mind as you celebrate.

Hands opening and tending to a wood-burning stove with fire inside.

Fireplace Safety Tips For Homeowners

October 24, 2025 No Comments

Before lighting your first fire this season, make sure your chimney and fireplace are safe. Creosote buildup, blockages, or structural damage can put your family at risk. Learn essential fireplace safety tips, follow a homeowner checklist, and see how a professional home inspection ensures your home is ready for safe, cozy evenings.

House number 105 on a beige and black metal plaque mounted on a wall.

How To Make Your Home Easy To Find In An Emergency

October 10, 2025 No Comments

In an emergency, every second matters. If your house numbers are hidden, faded, or too small, first responders may struggle to find your home. Learn how to make your address visible with practical safety tips, a homeowner checklist, and advice from professional home inspectors to keep your family safe and your home easy to locate.

Our Blog

Hidden Home Issues After Winter And How To Spot Them

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist To Protect Your Home

New Homeowner Checklist: 10 Essential Steps After Moving In

When To Replace Your Water Heater | Home Inspector Tips

Preparing Your Home For The New Year: Essential Maintenance Tasks

Winter Home Emergency Preparedness Tips

Test Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors This Winter – Home Safety Tips

Thanksgiving Safety Tips For Homeowners | Home Inspections

Fireplace Safety Tips For Homeowners

How To Make Your Home Easy To Find In An Emergency

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