Post-Freeze Home Warranty Checklist: What to Inspect

Snowy street with melting ice reflects golden sunset light. Piles of snow line the wet pathway in winter evening. Bare trees stand on, urban residential lane.
Snowy street with melting ice reflects golden sunset light. Piles of snow line the wet pathway in winter evening. Bare trees stand on, urban residential lane.

Winter in Texas can be unpredictable. When freezing weather strikes, it’s wise to inspect even the most well-built homes for potential issues. While CB JENI townhomes are built to last, a quick post-freeze checkup ensures your home remains in top shape.

Before you begin your inspection, it’s important to know who to contact if you find any exterior damage. Your HOA dues often cover exterior elements like siding, roofing, and shared structures, so promptly notifying your HOA can lead to swift repairs at no out-of-pocket cost to you. This helps maintain your community’s pristine condition and appearance. We always recommend reviewing your HOA documents to understand your specific coverage.

Here’s a simple checklist to guide your inspection.

1. Plumbing and Water Lines

Cold weather can cause pipes to freeze or leak. Check:

  • Turn on all faucets to make sure water runs normally.
  • Listen for strange sounds like hissing or dripping.
  • Look under sinks and around toilets for water or wet spots.
  • Check your water heater and outdoor pipes for any leaks or damage.

2. Attic and Ceilings

Your attic and ceilings are good places to spot water problems early.

  • Look for wet spots, stains, or light coming through the roof.
  • Check ceilings inside for new stains or sagging.

3. Interior Walls and Floors

Changes in temperature can cause visible problems inside.

  • Look for gaps, warping, or swelling in trim and baseboards.
  • Check floors for bumps or damp areas.
  • Reset GFCI outlets if needed.

4. Exterior Features

A quick walk around your home can catch outside issues.

  • Make sure outdoor faucets work and aren’t leaking.
  • Look for new cracks in siding or bricks.
  • Check for gaps in caulking around windows and doors.

5. Roof and Gutters

Heavy ice or snow can hurt your roof and gutters. From the ground:

  • Look for shingles that are missing, broken, or loose.
  • Make sure gutters and downspouts are attached and clear.

6. Heating System and Vents

Heating works hard when it’s cold. Double-check:

  • Your heating system turns on and off as it should.
  • Vents for your furnace and water heater aren’t blocked.

7. Water-Using Appliances

These can leak if pipes freeze. Check:

  • Dishwasher, washing machine, and fridge for leaks.
  • Water lines behind each appliance for cracks or drips.

8. Garage and Outdoor Areas

Unheated spaces need attention after a freeze.

  • Look for water stains on garage walls or ceiling.
  • Check sprinklers and walk your yard for wet or soggy spots.

9. Foundation and Drainage

Protecting your foundation is important. Walk around your home and:

  • Look for new cracks in the concrete.
  • Make sure water drains away from the house, not toward it.

We’re Here for You

CB JENI Homes are built to last, but it’s smart to inspect your home after harsh weather. If you see any problems covered by your warranty, reach out to us through the homeowner portal. We’re here to keep your home safe and comfortable.