Cloudy skies, umbrella in hand, soggy shoes… a rainy day isn’t usually thought of as the best time to visit a property. But this isn’t necessarily true!
Visiting a house in inclement weather can in fact reveal its true colours even before to the pre-purchase inspection (not that this replaces a professional inspection, of course!)
Foundations and Yard: Where Does the Water Go?
Heavy rainfall will provide the opportunity to see how the soil around the house handles all that water. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Is water accumulating near the home’s foundations?
- Are there slopes directing water toward the property?
- Are the French drains and copings working effectively?
- Are there stagnate pools of water on the driveway, pathway or in the backyard?
Poor drainage may lead to water infiltration problems and eventually structural issues.
Gutters, Roof and Downspouts: The Rain Defence Squad
It can be hard to determine if the water drainage systems are functioning properly in dry weather. A rainy day is the perfect time to check:
- that the water flows freely from the gutters to the downspouts and out.
- for any overflows or leaks.
- for any suspicious noises in the walls (indicative of water infiltration).
Indoor Comfort: Evaluating the Insulation and Natural Light Levels
A well-insulated home remains dry and comfortable even during a rainstorm. While you visit, ask yourself:
- Are the rooms warm and dry?
- Can you hear the rain beating on the roof or windows (adequate soundproofing)?
- Do some rooms smell mouldy or feel damp?
- Does the home still receive natural light despite the grey skies?
These are key details to assess the property’s everyday comfort level.
A Good Test to Judge the Surrounding Area’s Quality of Life
Take advantage of the rainy weather to walk around the neighbourhood and look for the following indicators:
- Is the neighbourhood very prone to flooding?
- Do the nearby streets drain well?
Water Infiltration and Humidity: These Signs Don’t Lie
Rain can reveal some of the property’s weak points, a few of which leave visible evidence (bad weather or no). So, carefully inspect the ceilings, wall corners, window frames, and the basement. You might detect:
- water stains or discolouration.
- damp cracks or visible droplets.
These signs may indicate a water leak, inadequate insulation, or drainage issues.
The Drawbacks: What the Rain Can Hide
While visiting a property on a rainy day can help reveal certain defects, this does have its limits.
- You can’t evaluate how much natural light enters the house under optimal conditions. A room may seem dark because of the clouds outside but be very bright on sunny days.
- Determining if you like the outdoor living spaces, like the backyard, patio or pool, will be more difficult.
- The weather can influence the residence’s general atmosphere: a home that is warm and welcoming when the sun is out can feel sad and cold in the rain.
This is why returning for a second visit when the weather clears to get a complete picture of the property is recommended.
Instead of rescheduling a visit due to rain, consider the inclement weather an opportunity to conduct an inspection under real-world conditions. In either case, you will get the chance to ask any question you may have during the visit about anything you’ve noticed. And your broker will do the same! Finally, don’t skip the pre-purchase inspection: it’s a crucial step that also helps ensure your peace of mind.