January is the quiet hero of the homeowner calendar. It’s the month where a few simple checks can prevent costly repairs later — especially in the cold, wet conditions we experience across the Westshore.
Here’s what every BC homeowner should focus on this month.
Protect Against Frozen & Burst Pipes
Even mild winters cause frozen pipes in garages, crawlspaces and exterior walls.
Open cabinet doors under sinks on cold nights.
Disconnect garden hoses and shut off exterior taps.
Let faucets drip slightly during freezing temperatures.
Find and test your main water shut-off now — not during an emergency.
Check Attic & Bathroom Venting
Condensation buildup is a leading cause of mold and structural damage in winter.
Run bathroom fans for at least 20 minutes after showers.
Ensure vent pipes are properly secured in the attic.
Watch for moisture staining around ceiling fans or skylights.
Inspect Your Roof After Winter Storms
January storms quietly expose roof issues.
Look for lifted shingles or loose flashing.
Check ceilings for faint water rings or discoloration.
Clear debris from gutters so water drains freely.
Service Your Heating System
Your furnace or heat pump is working overtime right now.
Replace or clean filters.
Book annual servicing before breakdown season hits.
Ensure all vents are open and unobstructed.
Control Winter Humidity
BC homes trap moisture in winter, especially suites and basements.
Install or use fan timers and humidity sensors.
Run dehumidifiers in lower levels.
Aim for indoor humidity between 35–50%.
Test Safety Systems
New year, fresh batteries.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Replace detectors over 10 years old.
Make sure everyone knows where emergency shut-offs are located.
Final Thought
January isn’t about renovations — it’s about prevention. These small checks protect your home, your comfort, and your investment all year long.
Your Trusted Westshore Real Estate Advisor
If you live in Langford, Colwood, Royal Bay, Bear Mountain, Metchosin or anywhere across the Westshore, staying on top of home maintenance is one of the smartest ways to protect your equity.
With over 20 years of experience helping Westshore homeowners, I guide clients through every stage of ownership — from preventative care and market timing to strategic selling and design-forward marketing.
Whether you’re planning a move this year or just want to understand your home’s current value, I’m always happy to help.
Cheryl Barnes, REALTOR®
Westshore Real Estate Expert – Langford • Colwood • Bear Mountain • Royal Bay • Metchosin
Certified Home Stager | Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist | SRES
📍 Macdonald Realty Victoria
📞 250-413-7943
🌐 www.CherylBarnes.ca
Looking for the most trusted Westshore real estate agent? I provide local market expertise, professional staging, data-driven pricing strategies, and a boutique selling experience tailored to your home and your goals.